PUTRAJAYA: Deputy Health Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni stated that unhealthy lifestyles are closely linked to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which account for 73% of deaths in the country. Speaking at the 2023 national-level “Bulan Malaysia Sihat Sejahtera” (BMSS) celebration on Friday (Sept 8), he highlighted that nearly half of the population is unaware that they have an NCD. Not being treated early increases the risk of complications, he added.
Based on the 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey, one in two adults in Malaysia is overweight or obese, with the highest prevalence among women at 54.7% and those aged 55 to 59 at 60.9%. The survey also revealed that one in four adults in the country is not physically active, with the least active groups being women (28%), students (39%), and senior citizens (59%). It further indicated that one in three Malaysians has low health literacy, as evidenced by an unhealthy and inactive lifestyle, inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables, and smoking.
Given these statistics, Lukanisman expressed hope that the implementation of BMSS through the Healthy Malaysia National Agenda would increase public awareness regarding the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle. BMSS, observed every September in accordance with the Health Ministry’s directive, aims to shift the focus from “sick care” to “healthcare and wellness” through preventive measures and promoting a healthy lifestyle aligned with the Health White Paper, he explained.
“The rise in diseases caused by Malaysians’ unhealthy lifestyles places significant pressure on the country’s healthcare system and finances,” Lukanisman emphasized. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
