It is the exciting month of love with Valentine’s Day around the corner.
There is also a lot of advertising on what you can do to show how much you love and appreciate the one you are with.
“It can also be a time to show your love to those you may never meet by donating blood and making a difference to the lives of others,” said Vanessa Raju, communications manager of the South African National Blood Service (SANBS).
The public is needed to join the blood donation community and start donating a minimum of four times a year.
February is also the month dedicated to Healthy Lifestyles Awareness.
Reports show that in the past five years, there has been, a growing number of people diagnosed with heart disease, cancer and various other health-related illnesses.
Lifestyle diseases are triggered by our unhealthy lifestyle choices like:
· Smoking
· Being overweight
· Indulging in an unhealthy diet filled with fatty foods and limited fruits and vegetables
· Limited physical activity
· High stress levels
SANBS supports Healthy Lifestyle Awareness Month and encourages South Africans to start paying attention to problem areas in their health, go for regular medical check-ups and control their stress levels.
Raju said,“Stress has a significant impact on lifestyle illnesses. People need to make time for regular exercise, spend time doing things they enjoy, learn some relaxation techniques and just some time to relax.”
People who meet the minimum requirements are encouraged to become regular blood donors.
Details: 0800 119 031 or www.sanbs.org.za
