Bad lifestyle choices a concern for Minister of Health

Motswaledi identified the four diseases (calling them the ‘4 x 4′) as diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer and lung disease, which are anticipated to explode over the next two decades with an impact that will surpass the effects of HIV/Aids.

The concern was raised at the launch of a new health TV programme The Goodlife Network – Live It at Alex Clinic. The programme will air on DSTV from December.

He identified smoking as one of the main challenges which government is planning to ban by 2040. “There is absolutely no reason to smoke cigarettes which have no nutritional value, except to contribute to almost every disease, especially lung cancer. It’s just a pollutant that harms the air and other people. The government will, in the coming months, ban smoking in all public spaces,” he said. He added that the ban will include smoking through hookah pipes, which is said to be equivalent to smoking 30 cigarettes.

Alcohol was the next problem in government’s focus. “It’s fuelled by subliminal advertising which compels society to indulge in it as the adverts for alcohol use famous actors adored by members of society,” he said.

Motswaledi added that liquor was also readily available, even to children, as every other residence, especially in the townships, was a tavern.

He identified bad eating habits as a concern. “The high intake of salt results in high blood pressure, strokes, heart and kidney diseases. The government has set targets to restrict companies’ use of salt in spices, bread, brine, soups and snacks.

“Sugar is another challenge, [where] food companies and traders use deceptive advertising to sell unhealthy sugary products.” He said diabetes and high blood pressure resulted in health facilities being overcrowded with patients who wouldn’t be there if they practised good eating habits.

Cancer was another concern which was avoidable through improved food habits and by exercising good personal care.