Health Campaign Kicks Off in Kerala to Tackle Lifestyle Diseases
A new health campaign, ‘Arogyam, Anandam – Vibe for Wellness,’ launched at the Azhankal Walkway in Karamana, aims to address the rise of lifestyle diseases among Kerala’s youth. This initiative emphasizes the need for community-based solutions to combat health issues like heart disease and cancer, now increasingly common in those aged 20 to 40.
U. Nandakumar, the chairman of CAPSULE Kerala and a former professor at Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, emphasized the urgency of this effort. He cited troubling statistics: cardiovascular diseases and cancer rates are climbing among younger people.
Learning from Finland
The campaign draws inspiration from Finland, which faced similar health challenges a few years ago. Finland successfully reduced cardiovascular deaths through community-driven dietary and lifestyle changes. Dr. Nandakumar hopes Kerala can achieve similar results and plans to expand the campaign across the state after starting in Thiruvananthapuram.
During an interactive session, Dr. Nandakumar addressed various health concerns, including popular diets and women’s health issues. He also provided valuable insights on nutritional needs and the impact of sedentary lifestyles, noting that many young people underestimate the importance of balanced diets.
Engaging the Youth
The event was a collaborative effort, supported by the Azhankal Walkway Protection Group and Kerala Sastra Sahithya Parishad (Kalady unit). Student volunteers played a crucial role, helping participants calculate the caloric value of their meals and explaining the benefits of protein-rich diets.
To further support the community, free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings will be available at the walkway every Saturday. The organizers stress that regular exercise combined with proper nutrition is essential in addressing the shifting health challenges that Kerala faces.
The Bigger Picture
As lifestyle diseases become a pressing concern, health campaigns like this serve as a reminder of the importance of proactive measures. Community involvement and education can significantly alter health outcomes. With the support of local organizations and the enthusiasm of the youth, there’s hope for a healthier future in Kerala.
For more information on community health initiatives, you can refer to the World Health Organization.
