LETTERS: People above 40 years old should have a medical check-up on a regular basis.
Those who are 50 and above should go for a check-up at least once a year, and those above 60 twice a year.
Heart disease, stroke and cancer are the three most common causes of death in Malaysia.
Health experts say a sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet, obesity, excessive smoking and alcohol consumption contribute to heart disease and stroke.
Cancer and other illnesses can be treated if detected in the early stages. But according to a report, most cases are detected at a late stage, making recovery difficult.
In another report, one-third of cancer deaths were associated with obesity, low intake of fruits and vegetables, poor physical activity, smoking and alcohol consumption.
People above the age of 50 should also go to government clinics to check their blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
These tests, when done regularly, can show any imbalance or irregularities in our body composition.
It has been reported that Covid-19 patients with health complications are most vulnerable to the virus.
We need to teach our young to be healthy and free from non-communicable diseases (NCD) like heart disease and diabetes.
NCD are lifestyle diseases that can be avoided by changing our habits from young. Health is more than the absence of sickness or disease.
We need to be healthy physically, mentally and emotionally to achieve success and happiness.
Many would send their cars to the mechanic for regular servicing but do not go to hospitals for their own check-up. And when they do go, it would be too late.
Check-ups should be complemented by mental health checks to monitor stress and pressure.
Stress and exhaustion can lead to heart problems and poor health. Most heart problems are closely associated with some stress and pressure from personal or professional issues.
SAMUEL YESUIAH
Seremban, Negri Sembilan
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times
