Authority promotes healthy living habits in Mt Hagen

HEALTHY living programmes have been driven by the Western Highlands health authority with the aim to creating a health-conscious community.

Authority public health deputy director Freda Pyanyo set up public booths last week in Mt Hagen, urging the public to check their blood pressure and undergo wellness programmes.

Pyanyo said the authority was taking every opportunity to interact with the public to increase awareness and conduct basic health tests.

She and her team conducted awareness on blood pressure levels on May 16 –  a day before World Hypertension Day.

Pyango said hypertension was a silent killer, and urged every person to check their blood pressure annually.

She said despite its dangers, hypertension can be managed and prevented when addressed early.

“You must come for check-ups as it is at no cost. When you know your status, you will start to promote healthy practices to avert the problem progressing,” Pyango said.

“We commemorate World Hypertension Day to break the silent killer, and to encourage individuals and communities on the dangers of high blood pressure and take proactive steps towards prevention.

“The celebration was a reminder to the public that lifestyle adjustments can lead to significant and positive health impacts.”

She said a healthy diet with fruits and vegetables, being active, losing weight, limiting alcohol, cutting smoking and doing regular exercise increased good health, and added years to life.

The authority has taken the lead in observing health days as the opportunity to do health awareness and basic checkups in public places.