Promoting health must be a priority

THE EDITOR: For the past few months it has been stated that elderly individuals with pre-existing medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease are more vulnerable to covid19. This reality highlights the urgent need to address the prevalence of these medical conditions in the country.

The time has come for priority to be given to health promotion in our workplaces, faith-based bodies, non-governmental organisations, neighbourhood community groups, youth groups, sports clubs, and parent-teacher associations.

This is a call for these groups to become more directly involved in health promotion activities using health professionals in the community. While the Ministry of Health and the regional health authorities are very active in health promotion, more groups in the society should become intentional about promoting healthy living.

During this period of restrictions on assembly, faith-based groups can use some of the time in their online meetings and services to promote healthy lifestyles.

A major public health issue is the use of tobacco among our citizens. Faith-based organisations could take the opportunity to encourage a tobacco-free lifestyle among their followers, especially with World No Tobacco Day being marked on May 31.

Many people do not realise the impact of everyday choices in determining the long-term quality of their health.

A vigorous health promotion initiative by community groups and faith-based organisations could make a difference in improving the quality of life of our citizens.

IAN GREEN

Couva