Better Health is a series of wellness programs designed to allow you to live your best life. The first of the series was held on Tuesday, via Zoom under the theme ‘A Healthy Heart’ in recognition of World Heart Day. This year’s theme is “UseYourHeart”. Dr Bhathiya Ranasinghe, Consultant Cardiologist and Fiona Eccles, Director of Nursing at English Nursing Care spoke on ‘A Healthy Heart’.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 56 percent of Sri Lankans in 2015 were under treatment for heart attacks and strokes. The rates have not shown improvement raising concern for healthcare professionals. The population having high blood pressure in 2000 was about 19 percent. According to the WHO, it will rise to 29 percent by 2025 while the global average remains 18 percent. This proves that Sri Lanka is at a high risk of cardiovascular diseases and the need for appropriate healthcare should be given much recognition.
Eccles said, “People need to be informed on how simple lifestyle changes at any age can improve your heart health. Primary healthcare centres around the country recorded more than 50 percent of their patients receiving care for cardiovascular diseases. About 22.64 percent of the deaths in the country are a result of heart diseases as per WHO statistics. We as health professionals need to share our knowledge on how to best look after yourself with the minimum use of medication. If you are looking to improve your heart health or that of a loved one with hypertension, weight issues and/or diabetes, a Healthy Heart program is a must listen.”
Co-founder CEO from Healthnet Deeshana Basnayake said, “Certain medical conditions and lifestyle choices put you at risk of heart disease. These include stress, diabetes, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol.
However, coping with cardiac illnesses and strokes comes with other complications. If mismanaged, a significant negative impact can fall upon those affected. With Better Health which is brought to you by English Nursing Care and Healthnet, we aim to create an interactive discussion among the people to achieve Better Health to improve our heart health.”
“It is never too late to make changes for Better Health. While many adults have medical conditions that increase health risks, maintaining a healthy lifestyle promotes a healthier, longer life, regardless of these conditions. A study of participants with an average age of 74, who adjusted their lifestyle with this aim experienced a positive impact on their health.”