Director general of the Department of Health – ‘Big bums are a no-no’
JOBURG - The African trade mark [ATM] of big bums and the acquired fad of big bellies said to disfigure and make it difficult for some people to walk happily and freely, was revealed as a self induced quick route to death.
Said to be a self-induced quick route to death, the African trade mark (ATM) of big bums and bellies disfigure people and make it difficult to walk happily and freely.
This was announced at the Alex clinic during the launch by the Minister of Health Aaron Motswaledi during the launch of a dedicated health television programme Goodlife Network – Live it due to air on DSTV from December.
Precious Matsoso, director general of the Department of Health said, “The programme is to improve citizens’ awareness on the importance of good and healthy living by avoiding lifestyle-related chronic and dread diseases which now also affect children.”
Admittedly well-endowed herself, Matsoso said ATM indicated a problem which should be addressed through changing what people ate and did to avoid being healthy and fit. She said ATM didn’t reflect affluence, success and a good life, but rather people’s desire to shorten their lives with diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer and opportunistic infections. “They are avoidable by changing lifestyle habits, attitudes, improving self-esteem and by having a purpose to enjoy and live longer lives,” she stressed.
MMC Nonceba Molwele commended the programme as a powerful communication medium to contribute to the city council’s health drive and Joburg’s smart city objective. This by using famous actors who citizens adored and look up to for guidance.
Lebo Ramafoko of Soul City, said the programme will adjust social norms, tackle taboos and help people make informed decisions about living wholesome and healthy lives. “This will prevent avoidable chronic and communicable illnesses. The series will be a food police fitness programme,” she said.
European Union representative, Sofia Moreira, attributed most health-related problems to obesity which she said was preventable through improved diet, not smoking, engaging in sports and active movement, not drinking alcohol and making the rights choices about what people put into their bodies. “Policy makers should also invest more in healthy lifestyle programmes,” Moreira added while saying the media was a powerful force in changing attitudes and behaviour.
