By Annie Francis
It is estimated that 73% of the total deaths in Malaysia are due to non-communicable diseases (NCD) such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, stroke and cancer.
Of these, cardiovascular diseases, in both men and women take top spot. However, simple lifestyle changes can prevent or delay its onset.
Dr David Charles Cumberland, an expert in interventional cardiology, when met at Medical Opinion Asia said, “There are two things we cannot do anything about as we grow older – our genes and advancing age.
“Our genetic make-up does affect the risk of acquiring NCDs such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure.”
He explained that as age advances, arteries become stiffer and their walls, thicker. This in turn often causes high blood pressure and increases the workload of the heart.
Together with other risk factors such as abnormal cholesterol levels and/or diabetes, arteries may become clogged with atherosclerosis and lead to heart attacks or stroke.
“Although artery problems are usually more common as age advances, we do see quite a number of young people, those in their thirties, developing such problems.
“This may very well be related to our modern sedentary lifestyle and the consumption of processed or sugary foods.”
But the future is not so bleak, Dr Cumberland said, if one simply observed the following:
• establish a work-life balance
• engage in regular and moderate exercise
• opt not to smoke
• observe a balanced diet which includes lots of fruits and vegetables
• consume less sugar and salt
• undergo regular health screening
These habits should be encouraged even in children. However, if you’re a senior and have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or cardiovascular problems, it is still not too late to take control of your health if you are willing to make some simple lifestyle changes.
It is also very important that you continue to take the medications prescribed to address your specific health issue. If you are unhappy at having to do this, discuss it with your doctor. Never stop all medication without medical consultation first.
Dr Cumberland also said that activities such as yoga, Tai Chi and meditation helped with managing stress and reducing blood pressure. It is also believed that these activities could delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), one of the most common forms of dementia.
However, opting for a healthier lifestyle will depend on the individual. As the saying goes, “Your thoughts determine your actions, and your actions determine the life that you live.”