Don’t let NCDs steal your future, act now live longer

TANZANIANS, it’s time to have a serious conversation about our health – and let’s do so with a dose of humour, because, let’s face it, laughing may be the best medicine we’re leaving behind!

The reality is, more of us are dying earlier than we should and that’s not because of the typical “old age” reason our grandparents used to proudly talk about.

No, we are now facing an epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) that are quietly but steadily claiming our lives – and many of them are preventable! Take a moment to imagine this: You’re a young person with dreams of a long and healthy life ahead, only to be struck down by heart disease, diabetes or cancer before you hit your 50s.

While our grandparents’ generation passed away at old age, today’s youths seem to be heading for an early departure.

Shocking, right? But the numbers don’t lie. According to the World Health Organisation, NCDs now account for 71 per cent of all global deaths, with a staggering 15 million lives lost each year among people aged 30 to 69.

In Tanzania, the situation is no different, with hospitals reporting an alarming rise in young people battling hypertension, diabetes and even strokes.

Now, before you start blaming your busy schedule or the endless supply of fried chicken at every corner, let’s face it: these diseases are largely the result of lifestyle choices. Unhealthy diets, lack of exercise, smoking, excessive alcohol and stress have become our daily companions.

What’s more? NCDs don’t announce themselves with dramatic symptoms, so many of us go on with life thinking we’re invincible – until it’s too late.

But here’s the good news: these diseases are preventable. You don’t need to wait for the dreaded doctor’s appointment to learn that your sugar levels are dangerously high or your heart is showing signs of wear.

Small changes can save your life – like swapping that soda for water, taking a walk instead of sitting all day and finding time to laugh more.

Yes, we need to laugh more – it lowers stress and is scientifically proven to be good for your heart! So, let’s leave the unhealthy habits in the past and embrace a future where we live longer, healthier and with fewer hospital visits.

Tanzania, let’s wake up! We owe it to ourselves and to the generations that follow to prioritise our health. Let’s be the generation that doesn’t just survive – let’s thrive.