Mobile apps can be used to prevent and control cardiovascular diseases. - NSTP file pic
Mobile apps can be used to prevent and control cardiovascular diseases. - NSTP file pic

LETTERS: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among Malaysians, contributing 14.5 per cent of the national mortality rate in 2019.

The theme of this year's World Heart Day (Sept 29) was "Use Heart to Connect", highlighting the prevention and control of cardiovascular disease through digital technology.

We proposed seven ways to keep our heart healthy with the adoption of digital technology:

First, a heart healthy diet is crucial. Studies show that a DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet can lower blood pressure, reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) level, besides lowering the risks of heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity.

DASH diet emphasises consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean poultry and fish, nuts and legumes and vegetable oils which are good for the heart. Mobile diet app records can keep track on the diet taken.

Second, staying active has been more challenging during the pandemic. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week.

Physical activity is made trackable using in-built fitness apps in smartphones or wearable devices to assess one's physical activity. More videos could be accessible from the MyHealthKKM YouTube channel on Xbreak exercises.

Third, smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. A meta-analysis showed that men who smoked one cigarette per day had 1.48 higher risk while those who smoked 20 cigarettes per day had 2.04 higher risk for coronary heart disease as compared with a non-smoker. When you are ready to quit smoking, get connected to quit by registering at the Health Ministry's JomQuit website .

Fourth, the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019 reported that one in two Malaysians were overweight or obese, both associated with cardiovascular disease. Aim for a healthy Body Mass Index within the normal range (18.5 to 24.9kg/m2).

Diet and exercise helps in losing weight. Using digital weight monitoring and fitness mobile apps to track and monitor one's weight digitally could get one's body weight on track.

Fifth, stress is another risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Practising mindfulness, deep breathing as well as relaxation exercises and therapies help in managing stress.

Feel free to seek help from Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, Ministry of Health and Mercy Malaysia volunteers via the hotline at 03-2935 9935 / 014-3223 392 / 011-6399 6482/ 011-6399 4236.

Sixth, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia are common comorbidities and major risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases.

Hence, regular screening is encouraged. Telehealth is also available in some health clinics to improve accessibility during the pandemic. If there is abnormal blood glucose, blood pressure or cholesterol levels, do not hesitate to consult the nearest health clinic.

Seventh, in a more sustainable lifestyle change, build a heart-friendly society, create a more conducive environment to keep one another on track and get support throughout lifestyle modification via digital network.

Peer support helps keep one another motivated for healthier choices. Society should stay united and get connected to one another to ensure better health for all.


DR YOONG LEE YEEN andPROFESSOR DR MOY FOONG MING

Department of Social and Preventive Medicine,

Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya

The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times