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Exercise urged as key to combating rising lifestyle diseases

Amid growing concerns over lifestyle-related diseases, Kinondoni District Commissioner has called on citizens to embrace exercise
Kinondoni District Commissioner Mr Saad Mtambule ( center)

DAR ES SALAAM: Amid growing concerns over lifestyle-related diseases, Kinondoni District Commissioner Mr. Saad Mtambule has called on citizens to embrace exercise as a crucial step in combating obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

Speaking at the Mwananyamala Referral Hospital Week Festival, Mr Mtambule emphasized that recent lifestyle choices have led to a surge in health issues that were less common in the past.

“The foods we consume are contributing to excessive weight gain, high blood pressure, and diabetes. These issues have become alarmingly prevalent, and incorporating various forms of exercise is essential to tackling them,” he urged.

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He also commended the Mwananyamala  Referral Hospital for its exemplary service over the past year and a half, noting that the quality of care has resulted in minimal complaints from the public.

On his part the Chief Medical Officer at Mwananyamala Referral Hospital Dr. Zavery Benela, , highlighted the festival’s health initiatives, including free medical treatments, blood donations, and comprehensive health screenings.

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He noted that on Saturday , the event saw the collection of 22 pints of blood and treated 70 patients.

He also pointed out that many patients are currently suffering from strokes, often linked to diabetes and high blood pressure conditions exacerbated by lifestyle choices.

He acknowledged the ongoing support from doctors at Temeke Referral Hospital and Ocean Road Hospital, who are participating in the event.

The sports coordinator at Mwananyamala Referral Hospital Ms Ashura Rashid noted that the festival includes medical services and a sports bonanza aimed at raising awareness and combating non-communicable diseases.

The event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive health measures in addressing the nation’s growing health crisis.