The World Health Organisation, WHO Representative to the Maldives, Dr. Arvind Mathur said on Thursday that non-communicable diseases are of highest concern in the Maldives as they account for 80% of all deaths in island nation.
He made the statement in his message on the occasion of World Heart Day, which is observed annually on September 29 to bring awareness about Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) - a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels including heart attacks and strokes- the world’s leading cause of death.
He said “many people are exposed to unhealthy behaviors, including tobacco use, eating foods containing too much salt and inadequate physical activity which are the major risk factors for CVDs.”
He asserted that many could be saved by simple measures such better access to medical care for high blood pressure.
He further stressed that one of the best ways to prevent and reduce the burden of heart diseases is to address these behavioral risk factors and ensure individuals quit smoking, reduce salt intake in diets, and consume healthier eating habits in addition to regular exercising.
Many activities are being held across the country to mark World Heart Day, including special assemblies in all schools, public awareness programmes on heart diseases, and a social media campaign under the title health heart selfie.
It is estimated that 17 million people die annually from Cardiovascular or Heart Diseases which contributes to a staggering 31% of all deaths worldwide. This also means more people die every year from cardiovascular diseases than any other cause. 80% of all cardiovascular deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes, and 75% of such deaths occur in low-income and middle-income countries.