Chua: Apply for funds to promote healthy living

Star: PENANG: The Health Promotion Board wants NGOs and professional health associations to apply for funding to organise health-related activities.
The board, chaired by Toh Puan Dr Aishah Ong, is in the process of appointing a CEO, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Chua Soi Lek said.
“Last year, the Cabinet approved RM37mil to help organisations promote healthy living among Malaysians.
“We hope more organisations will be encouraged to participate in the ministry’s Healthy Lifestyle Campaign,” he told reporters after launching a blood donation drive at Prangin Mall here yesterday.
Dr Chua said the ministry would double its efforts to combat the spread of diseases but added that the people must contribute too.
“We are now focusing on exhibitions and promotions through the media.
“Malaysians are aware of the need for a healthy lifestyle but they are not doing anything about it.
“My ministry has done all it can. What else can we do?'' he asked.
Dr Chua said most non-transmittable diseases like diabetes, heart ailments, stroke and cancer were linked to unhealthy habits and obesity.
“Malaysians eat too much. Coupled with the lack of physical activity, obesity sets in,” he said.
The minister said that over the last seven years, obesity among Malaysians had increased from 20% to 39%, with the number of women smokers was also on the rise.
“More women are picking up smoking because they think it is cool. Because men smoke, some women think they should too in order to be perceived as equals,” he said.