Non-communicable diseases, also known as chronic diseases, have been recognised as one of the leading causes of death globally. The need to educate the public at large should be taken seriously to help curb the incidence and prevalence of these diseases.Non-communicable diseases are not contagious but may result from unhealthy behaviours.Examples include hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, etc.The risk factors that can predispose to these include:I) physical inactivity: Here,one does little or no physical exercise.ii) smoking(iiii) unhealthy diet:these are diets that contain bad fats, are poor in fibre, are high in processed sugar, etc.(iv) alcohol abuse, etc.(v) Age:the elderly are more at risk, although people of all ages who have unhealthy diet behaviours can also be at risk.(vi) Hypertensive patients(vii) Diabetic patients(viii) Obesity(ix)Air pollution(v) Poverty, etc.These are major and common risk factors that can predispose one to this.
Some of the non-communicable disease risk factors can be prevented.Ways it can be prevented include:(a) Physical exercise:this is vital in preventing non-communicable diseases. One should at least do 30 minutes of brisk walking daily, walk something, and leave their car. Walk around if you have sat down for long. Exercise has numerous benefits.It aids in weight reduction, improves the immune system,makes one alert, strengthens one's bones and muscles, boosts energy, etc.(b) Reduce or stop smoking or alcohol.(c) Hospital visit or check-up:
This will aid in the early detection and treatment of hypertension, diabetes,high bad fats in the blood, and the tendency to get obese.(d) Healthy diet/lifestyle:A healthy diet is one that contains foods such as fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, etc. in an appropriate quantity. A healthy diet avoids bad fats, processed sugar, etc.In conclusion, a healthy lifestyle will help prevent diseases. Watch what you eat; we shouldn't eat everything that comes your way. If there is a history of chronic disease in your family,it means that you have the likelihood of contacting it.Thank you for reading, and please do the needful.Note: The pictures are mine.