To reduce the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the Gauteng Provincial Government through the Provincial Department of Health and the Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, in collaboration with the City of Johannesburg hosted a Move for Health commemoration at Pioneers Park / Wemmer Pan Dam.
The fun-filled day featured a 03 km and 05 km park walk, high-energy aerobics, indigenous games, a kiddies’ corner, activities for the elderly and free health screenings for hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, TB, HIV and Pap smears amongst others.
“Regular exercise even something as simple as a brisk daily walk cuts the risk of lifestyle-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and certain cancers,” said the Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko
In Gauteng these conditions are already taking a heavy toll. The latest provincial data shows diabetes prevalence climbing to 11.3 %, while hypertension has surged to 49 % of men and 51 % of women. NCDs not only shorten lives but drive-up health-care costs and place families under severe financial pressure.
Gogo Nonhlanhla Mfokeng who attended the event said, “I really enjoy events like these, they keep me healthy and motivated.”
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