Non-communicable diseases stagnated Malaysians’ lifespan
KUALA SELANGOR: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is the main cause of the stagnated lifespan of Malaysians at around 75 years, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The minister said that this was due to the lack of awareness on NCDs and their complications compared to people in other countries who make efforts to extend their lifespan.
Using the examples of high blood pressure and diabetes, Dzulkefly said 50% of the patients treated at health ministry facilities were not aware they had contracted these diseases.
He said this was a serious matter.
“Our lifespan has stagnated for one decade, compared to other countries, at the average of 75 years — 73 for men and 78 for women,” he said after launching the Kampungku Sihat (My Healthy Village) programme for the Kuala Selangor parliamentary constituency in Kampung Bukit Kuching Tengah, Jeram, here today.
Dzulkefly said NCDs such high blood pressure can lead to complications such as heart attacks, diabetes and renal failure. Cancer was a second major concern.
A low level of awareness or ignorance also contributed to the people not taking health screening seriously.
By comparison, he said Singapore was more serious in combating NCDs as the island state declared war against diabetes by making it compulsory for its citizens to undergo health screening.
Even though Malaysia has not reached that stage, the ministry are encouraging the people to go for health checkups, he said.
