MORE M'SIANS SUFFER FROM HYPERTENSION

JOHOR BAHARU (Malaysia), March 30 (Bernama) -- Adult Malaysians generally
are unaware they suffer from hypertension...and the statistics keep rising.

Deputy Health Minister Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad revealed that two weeks
ago, a random health screening of 100 adults showed that 44 per cent suffered
from hypertension and were not undergoing treatment.

He said the percentage merely confirmed what the health ministry knew all
along, adding that three years ago, the ministry carried out a mobility survey
and found out that 43 per cent of adult Malaysians suffered from hypertension.

"In a survey in 1996, the figure was 33 per cent. So, it's obvious more and
more Malaysians have hypertension.

"However, the ministry's greatest concern is that many of them are not
seeking treatment simply because they are unaware that they have hypertension.

"It's so easy these days to have your pulse-rate checked. You can do it
yourself with the devices available and if you are a married man accompanying
your wife for a pre-natal check-up, you can get the doctor to take your BP
(blood pressure)," said Dr Latiff.

He was speaking at the launch of the Fitness for Charity programme organised
by the Care United Club of Johor Baharu at the City Square here Sunday.

Dr Latiff urged non-governmental organisations to play their part to
convince the public to lead a healthy lifestyle.

-- BERNAMA