Tackling Silent Killers: How Healthy Living Can Combat Non-Communicable Diseases In Pregnant Women With Disabilities

📷RADA Facebook Page:L-R:

By Raymond Dingana 

Health experts describe non communicable diseases (NCDs) as "silent killers." These are long-term health conditions that cannot be spread from person to person. Examples include heart diseases, diabetes, concers, and chronic respiratory issues, all linked to genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

The ongoing Anglophone crisis has drastically altered lifestyles in places like Bamenda. Many who once exercised regularly now avoid outdoor activities due to safety concerns. As a result, people often eat what is available, which at times negatively affects their health. This change highlights how lifestyle choices contribute to the rising rate of NCDs with special focus on pregnant women with disabilities.

How Poor Lifestyle Choices Fuel NCDs In Pregnant Women with Disabilities

Unhealthy habits such as tobacco use,poor diets( high sugar, salt, and fats),, lack of exercise, and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to serious health issues like diabetes and heart disease. 

Dr. Ayuvea Angelo, a NCDs expert, emphasizes that conditions such as hypertension,and diabetes are primarily driven by lifestyle choices.

The Solutions Through Nutrition and Exercise 

Dr. Angelo believes that addressing the root causes is essential for effective management. "The body has a remarkable ability to heal when given the right conditions," he says. This begins with a diet rich in natural, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Such nutrition not only improves the mother’s health during pregnancy but also supports the baby's long-term well-being.

Physical exercise is equally crucial for reversing NCDs. Pregnant women, including those with disabilities, should engage in some form of exercise. Dr. Angelo suggests simple activities like walking or gentle movements, saying, "You don’t have to be an Olympic athlete. Even small, seated exercises can significantly improve health."

He also points out that exercise isn’t just for weight loss. Regular movement improves circulation and insulin sensitivity, reducing complications during pregnancy. Managing stress is also vital, as chronic stress can worsen NCDs. "Simple breathing exercises can help regulate hormones in the body," he says.

NCDs are not simply deficiencies requiring medication; they result from lifestyle imbalances. Dr. Angelo emphasizes that gradual lifestyle changes can slow disease progression, reduce complications during pregnancy, and safeguard future generations.

RADA's Commitment to Fighting NCDs

The Reconciliation and Development Association (RADA) under the leadership of Ferdinant Sonyuy is actively fighting against NCDs. They recently pushed for high taxes on unhealthy products, claiming that such measures could fund 40% of the national health budget. A post on their Facebook page states:

"RADA advocates for health taxes on unhealthy commodities in Cameroon to lower consumption and enhance health financing, particularly for chronic NCDs not covered in current health packages."

This initiative hopes to encourage producers to reformulate their products into healthier options.

An old saying reminds us that our diet significantly affects our health: "You are what you eat." Promoting healthy eating and regular exercise are critical strategies in the fight against non-communicable diseases.

The old adage reminds us that our diet significantly affects our health: "You are what you eat." Promoting healthy eating and regular exercise are critical strategies in the fight against non communicable diseases.