Paths to keeping the doctor away

Achieving optimal health: Regular exercise and eating a balanced diet can reduce one’s risk of developing certain conditions like obesity, heart disease, stroke and cancer.

THE unparalleled value of good health is celebrated on World Health Day (WHD), which is observed every year on April 7 to mark the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1948.

Spearheaded by WHO, physical, mental and emotional well-being are promoted and celebrated all over the world on this day.

Malaysia is considered an unhealthy country as the number of people suffering from heart disease and obesity is high. One in every two people is obese and overweight, one in four does not engage in physical activity, and only one in 20 sticks to a healthy diet.

Diabetes is a serious public health concern. Globally, there is a rising trend in the prevalence of diabetes due to many factors, including population growth, ageing, urbanisation and increasing prevalence of obesity and physical inactivity.

According to the 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS), one in five adults in Malaysia suffered from diabetes. That was about 3.9 million people aged 18 years and above in a population of 32 million back then.

The diabetes prevalence rate in this country has risen much faster than expected, almost doubling in magnitude over the last decade. Diabetes has not only taken a toll on financial resources, as it is a costly disease for the nation to treat, but also on the limbs and eyesight of its sufferers.

Unhealthy eating habits, increased stress levels, sedentary lifestyle and smoking – largely as a result of hectic work schedules – predispose young people to high cholesterol and other non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs).

The onset of heart disease in Malaysia among the young is highest compared to other countries in the South-East Asian region. According to the 2019 NHMS, cardiovascular diseases (such as stroke and coronary heart diseases) are the leading causes of deaths in Malaysia.

Highlighting the long-term implications of an unhealthy diet, health experts have warned that the vicious cycle of poor cholesterol management may be passed down the generations.

The Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) calls on Malaysians to practise a healthy lifestyle by staying physically active, eating a balanced diet and looking after their mental health in order to strengthen immunity in fighting diseases.

Where food is concerned, CAP advises consumers to:

> Reduce oily, deep-fried foods and foods that are high in salt;

> Reduce snacking and choose healthier options such as fresh fruits and vegetables;

> Reduce the consumption of carbonated and sugary drinks; and

> Keep processed meats and fast foods to a minimum.

In view of the appalling health status of Malaysians, CAP calls on the government to:

> Ban vending machines in schools, hospitals and other public places;

> Educate Malaysians on the dangers of obesity and diabetes;

> Impose taxes on foods that are high in fats, sugar, salt and additives to discourage consumption of such foods;

> Provide adequate recreational amenities in all residential areas;

> Make it compulsory for food manufacturers to state the amount of sodium on labels; and

> Mandate clear labelling on the fat content of all foods, including fast foods.

MOHIDEEN ABDUL KADER

President

Consumers’ Association of Penang