We need to take control of our own health

THE maxim “health is wealth” extends beyond our individual lives to the prosperity of our nation.

Sadly, premature deaths have become a frequent occurrence in Malaysia, robbing us not only of precious lives but also the potential contributions these individuals could have made to our country.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines premature death as “unconditional probability of death between ages 30 and 70 from cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases.”

A 2018 study published by the United States National Library of Medicine revealed that ischaemic heart disease is the leading cause of premature death among Malaysians (accounting for 17.7%), followed by lower respiratory infections (9.7%), road traffic injuries (8.7%), cerebrovascular disease or stroke (8.0%), and diabetes mellitus (3.9%).

In the WHO Mortality Database, ischaemic heart disease was revealed as the leading cause of premature death for both men and women in Malaysia in 2019.

Premature death from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is a matter of grave concern, and it is high time that we address it.

Instead of solely focusing on making huge investments in healthcare facilities, it is crucial that the government also allocates resources to the Health Ministry for conducting more awareness and wellness programmes to compel Malaysians to adopt healthy lifestyles.

Components of a healthy lifestyle include watching one’s weight, eating a well-balanced diet, reducing consumption of sugar and salt, staying away from harmful substances such as alcohol, cigarettes and drugs, and exercising both the body and mind regularly.

Funds should also be set aside for the construction of more sports and recreational facilities, such as parks, playing fields and swimming pools, in every neighbourhood. By making these facilities accessible, we can encourage and enable Malaysians to lead active and health-conscious lives.

It must be emphasised to every Malaysian, young and old, that their health is within their own control. With good health, they can achieve almost anything.

DR POLA SINGH

Kuala Lumpur