Alarming Increase in Lifestyle-Related Diseases in Sabah: What You Need to Know

SANDAKAN: Sabah is facing a growing problem with lifestyle-related illnesses. Health officials point out a “double burden” of malnutrition: some people experience undernutrition while others consume too many calories.

Dr. Maria Suleiman, the Sabah Health Department director, says the rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and hypertension is linked to poor eating habits and a lack of exercise. “We have two challenges: undernutrition and overconsumption, along with bad dietary choices,” she explained.

Dr. Maria highlighted troubling statistics, mentioning that in 2024 alone, Queen Elizabeth Hospital reported 298 new stroke cases, and Duchess of Kent Hospital noted 198. High blood pressure is a significant factor in many of these cases.

She encourages everyone to take control of their health. “A healthier diet and more physical activity can make a big difference,” she said.

Recent data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey reveals that chronic illnesses are steadily increasing in Sabah. For example, diabetes rates climbed from 5.7% in 2011 to 8.8% in 2023. Dyslipidemia went from 31% to 32%, while overweight rates jumped from 28% to 30.9%. The obesity rate almost doubled, moving from 10.6% to 19.5%—a significant cause for concern.

The Jom Sihat Sandakan program, launched at Sejati Walk, included health screenings, nutrition exhibitions, and informative talks. It aims to raise awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Maria noted that the initiative supports the National Nutrition Policy, which focuses on improving access to nutritious food and sustainable food systems.

This issue isn’t unique to Sabah. A recent global health report indicated that chronic diseases are on the rise worldwide, making it crucial for individuals and communities to adapt healthier habits. Social media discussions reflect this urgency, with rising trends around fitness challenges and healthy eating recipes.

In a way, this modern health crisis is reminiscent of past public health efforts. Just a few decades ago, campaigns aimed to combat smoking and promote exercise, which ultimately changed public behavior significantly. Similar initiatives today could help address the challenges facing Sabah and beyond.

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