What are NCDs?
NCDs stands for Non-Communicable Diseases (chronic non-contagious diseases), which are characterized by:
- Non-communicable: Not caused by pathogens and cannot spread from person to person.
- Chronic: Develop slowly, accumulate symptoms over time, and usually persist for long periods once contracted.
- Behavior-driven: Primarily caused by unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, earned them titles like "self-created diseases" or "silent killers" that gradually threaten long-term health.
Key Examples of NCDs
- Cardiovascular Diseases: High blood pressure (hypertension), coronary artery disease, stroke.
- Diabetes
- Various Cancers: Lung cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer.
- Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema.
- Abdominal Obesity / Dyslipidemia (high blood lipids)
- Chronic Kidney Disease
- Cirrhosis
Major Behavioral Risk Factors
Most NCDs stem from daily lifestyle risk factors, including:
- Unhealthy Diet: Consuming strongly flavored foods (overly sweet, salty, or fatty), high-fat foods, and grilled/charred items.
- Physical Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyle or insufficient physical movement.
- Smoking
- Alcohol Consumption
- Stress and Lack of Sleep
- Unsupervised Medication Use: Over-the-counter painkillers, unprescribed drug cocktails (ya chud).
Prevention of NCDs (Reducing Risk)
Since lifestyle habits are the primary root cause, prevention focuses on modifying behavior and daily routines:
1. Eat Healthy Foods:
- Reduce strongly flavored foods (sweet, fatty, salty).
- Increase intake of fruits and vegetables.
- Choose high-fiber foods.
2. Exercise Regularly: At least 30 minutes per session, 5 times a week, totaling 150 minutes per week.
3. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Key risk factors to eliminate.
4. Maintain Healthy Weight: Ensure weight is proportionate to height (prevent abdominal obesity).
5. Manage Stress and Get Adequate Rest: Engage in relaxing activities and sleep 6 - 8 hours per day.
6. Annual Health Screenings: Detect abnormalities or risk factors early to receive timely treatment.
Reference :
Independent Writer
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