PUBLIC AWARENESS OF HEART DISEASE STILL LOW IN MALAYSIA

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 27 (Bernama) -- Public awareness of heart disease is
still low despite numerous campaigns by the government and non-governmental
organisations (NGO).

Health Ministry medical development division director Dr Azmi Shapie
said heart disease is the main cause of deaths in Malaysia.

"Some 16 percent of deaths reported in hospitals last year are linked to
heart disease.

"This is serious and have to be addressed as heart disease can be
prevented," he said after launching World Heart Day celebration at Taman Tasik
Titiwangsa here Sunday.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that over 17mil people worldwide
died from heart diseases and stroke annually.


Dr Azmi said measures that could be taken to prevent heart disease include
avoiding smoke, a balanced diet and physical activities.

"Physical activities are important as inactivity and poor food intake can
lead to obesity, heart disease, diabetes and others.

"If we can manage our lifestyle, then we will be able to address heart
disease," he added.

-- BERNAMA