Proof

FEBRUARY IS HEALTHY LIFESTYLE AWARENESS MONTH – MAKE IT COUNT!

I mproving health to prevent disease

the risk of developing NCDs drops dramatically - and quality of life can significantly improve. Some alarming statistics for South Africa include: • 13% of children under five are overweight and 27% are stunted.

• Micronutrient deficiencies, such as anaemia affect 31% of females (aged 15 to 49 years). 4.2 million South Africans are living with diabetes, according to 2021 estimates from the International Diabetes Federation. There are ways in which we can improve our health to help prevent NCDs – these small changes are powerful: Plan and pack: Be prepared for the day with healthy snacks like fresh or dried fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, and a bottle of water. This will help you make better food choices and save you money! Focus on whole foods: Try to choose food that is as close to its natural state •

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) include a range of conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke and hypertension. In many cases, people are not aware that they are living with these health issues and thus don’t access the care and treatment that they need. NCDs are responsible for 70% of deaths worldwide and are the leading cause of death and disability in South Africa. But NCDs can be largely prevented. Through keeping a healthier lifestyle, by eating nutritious food, drinking safe water, engaging in regular physical activity and managing mental wellbeing,

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31% of women and nearly 10% of men aged 15 to 19 are overweight or obese. Only 29% of young people engage in moderate physical activity. The country experiences the triple burden of malnutrition with 27% of children under five classified as stunted and 2% of this group affected by wasting.

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8 FEBRUARY 2024