BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE– Millions of lives could be saved worldwide if people embraced simple lifestyle changes, as most Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are preventable.
Simple changes such as engaging in regular physical activity, eating balanced and nutritious meals, going for routine health screenings, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake and managing stress can significantly reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
This was the key message from Lobamba Clinic’s Sizakele Simelane, who highlighted that although NCDs remain among the leading causes of death globally, they are largely driven by avoidable risk factors.
She explained that NCDs long-term conditions not passed from person to person include cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, stroke and hypertension, as well as diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory illnesses, kidney disease and mental health disorders.
She revealed that an estimated 41 million people die from NCDs each year worldwide, with about 15 million of these deaths occurring prematurely among individuals aged between 30 and 69 years many of whom are in their most productive years.
She further noted that nearly 77 per cent of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, including Eswatini, making NCDs a growing concern for national development as they affect families, communities and the workforce.
Despite the scale of the challenge, Simelane stressed that prevention remains both possible and effective.
“Most of these conditions can be prevented,” she said.
She outlined major risk factors contributing to the rise in NCDs, including unhealthy diets, tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, obesity and unmanaged stress.
She emphasised that early detection plays a critical role in reducing complications and improving quality of life, noting that regular medical check-ups can help identify conditions before they become severe.
This was revealed during an engagement with the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development.
Health experts continue to stress that addressing NCDs requires collective action, with individuals, communities and institutions all playing a role in promoting healthier lifestyles.
The message serves as a strong reminder that protecting the nation’s health begins with informed choices and consistent preventive action at individual level.
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(Courtesy Pic)
