In a stark revelation, Deputy Health Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni has expressed deep concern over the alarming statistics surrounding non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in our nation. He disclosed that a staggering 73 percent of all deaths in our country can be attributed to NCDs, a phenomenon intrinsically tied to our increasingly unhealthy lifestyles.
Speaking during the inauguration of the 2023 national-level "Bulan Malaysia Sihat Sejahtera" (BMSS) celebration, Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni highlighted a grim reality - nearly half of the Malaysian population remains blissfully unaware that they are suffering from NCDs. This lack of awareness places them at a significantly higher risk of complications, as timely intervention becomes increasingly challenging.
The 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey underscored some unsettling trends. Shockingly, one in every two adults in Malaysia is either overweight or obese, with the highest prevalence among women at 54.7 percent and individuals aged 55 to 59 at a staggering 60.9 percent. These figures paint a disturbing picture of the growing health crisis in our country.
Furthermore, the same survey reported that one in four adults in Malaysia is not engaging in sufficient physical activity. The most concerning aspect is the interactivity among certain demographic groups, with women (28 percent), students (39 percent), and senior citizens (59 percent) being the least active.
A grave concern is also the revelation that one in three Malaysians exhibits low health literacy. This is manifest through unhealthy and sedentary lifestyles, inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables, and the persistence of smoking habits. These habits not only undermine individual health but also contribute to the wider healthcare burden our nation faces.
In light of these distressing findings, Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni expressed hope that the "Bulan Malaysia Sihat Sejahtera" initiative, aligned with the Healthy Malaysia National Agenda, will serve as a wake-up call for our citizens. The primary objective is to enhance public awareness regarding the significance of embracing a healthy lifestyle.
It is essential to comprehend that BMSS, observed every September, reflects a vital shift in the Health Ministry's approach. Rather than solely focusing on "sick care," it aims to promote "health care and wellness" through preventive measures. This vision aligns seamlessly with the Health White Paper, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle in preserving our well-being.
Minister Lukanisman Awang Sauni closed his speech by underlining the pressing issue at hand. The rise in diseases stemming from unhealthy lifestyles places immense pressure on our healthcare system and, consequently, our nation's finances. Urgent action is required to reverse these concerning trends, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for Malaysia.
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