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Journalism of Courage
A recent study of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has again outlined the need for urgent need for healthier living. On average, Mumbaikars consume 8.6 grams of salt daily, significantly surpassing the recommended 5 grams, which substantially elevates the risk of developing lifestyle-related diseases. Shockingly, 9 out of 10 Mumbaikars fall short of consuming an adequate number of fruits and vegetables.
“Excessive salt intake is a silent health hazard that can sneak up on anyone. It’s not just about raising blood pressure; it can lead to serious cardiovascular problems, kidney disease, and even stomach cancer. Salt can also wreak havoc on bones, causing calcium loss. The taste for salt is an acquired one, and it’s crucial to reduce our dependence on it,” said Dr Tushar Bandgar, head of endocrinology, at Mumbai’s KEM hospital.
The BMC’s STEPS survey, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), revealed concerning statistics: 46 percent of Mumbai’s residents are overweight, 12 percent are classified as obese, a staggering 74 percent lead sedentary lives, approximately 34 percent have high blood pressure, and roughly 19 percent have diabetes.
Dr Daksha Shah, the Executive Health Officer at BMC, stated that surveillance was conducted among citizens aged 18 to 69 across different departments. She said, “Smoking, tobacco use, inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables, lack of physical activity, being overweight, high blood pressure, and elevated cholesterol levels are among the primary risk factors associated with heart-related diseases.”
In the fight against non-communicable diseases, the BMC has taken substantial steps. Since August 2022, BMC’s medical colleges, suburban hospitals, and specialized facilities have opened 26 screening centres for diabetes and blood pressure. These centres have screened around 10.45 lakh citizens to date. Moreover, from January 2023, health workers and ASHA workers have been conducting door-to-door high blood pressure screenings for citizens aged 30 and above, surveying a total of 10.45 lakh individuals thus far.
Talking about non-communicable diseases, Dr Sudhakar Shinde, additional commissioner, BMC outlined how in India, cardiovascular diseases account for 27 percent of deaths. “In Mumbai metropolitan region in 2022, 25 percent of registered deaths were due to heart-related issues. We are actively educating citizens about heart health and nutrition to reduce non-communicable diseases. Lifestyle changes, regular check-ups, and medical advice are essential for prevention,” he said.
To promote a healthy and nutritious lifestyle, 138 yoga centers have been started in all departments. To date, 26,742 Mumbaikars have participated in yoga centers.
The BMC also issued advistory to avoid lifestyle diseases. These include minimizing the intake of sugar, salt, and fatty foods, as well as abstaining from alcohol, smoking, and tobacco. For individuals aged 30 and above, regular check-ups for high blood pressure and diabetes are recommended, with a focus on controlling these conditions through consistent medication. Additionally, it’s advised to engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, which may involve regular exercise and yoga sessions.
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