Latest news with #NationalHealthandMorbiditySurvey
The Star
16 hours ago
- Health
- The Star
Free health checks benefit thousands in Butterworth
Chua (centre) looking on as Wai Kuan undergoes his health check. HAVING drawn over 10,000 visitors to free health tests, the One Hope Charity Health Carnival 2025 in Butterworth, Penang, marked another milestone in early intervention. Organised by non-governmental organisation (NGO) One Hope Charity & Welfare, the weekend event featured 250 booths for 30 types of health screening, tests and treatments. Qualified medical practitioners and specialists attended to visitors to the carnival at the Penang International Convention Cultural & Arts Centre (Picca) Convention Centre. One Hope chairman Datuk Chua Sui Hau said droves of visitors came over the weekend to undergo tests, ranging from basic eye and foot checks to liver and heart examinations. 'This year's edition is the biggest since the health carnival was first organised in 2017, with hospitals and health institutions from various states stepping in to support. 'We had 4,000 blood screenings for cancer markers while 3,000 spectacles were given out. Visitors getting free eye checks during the carnival. — Photos: ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star 'A total of 5,000 flu vaccines were also administered,' he said, adding that organisers anticipated 8,000 visitors but the turnout surpassed this number. He said RM2.7mil had been spent to hold the event. This included about RM850,000 in donations channelled to various hospitals. Among those who made it for a health check was retired Jelutong contractor Ng Wai Kuan, 71, who uses a wheelchair after having lost a leg in an accident about 20 years ago. 'It's always a long queue at public hospitals and also inconvenient for me to undergo various tests at different sessions. 'When I heard about free health tests available here, I hopped onto my bike and took the ferry across to check it out,' he said. Housewife Maimunah Mat Taib had a massage at a traditional Chinese medicine booth. 'This is the first time I'm trying something like this and after a 15-minute session, I felt such relief,' she said. Teenagers Ng Zi Yu and Chong Xin Yi, both of whom recovered from scoliosis, were among volunteers who explained to visitors about the spinal condition, and treatments available. They both received aid from One Hope for their condition and have since recovered. At the carnival's opening, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow shared that high numbers of chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension was recorded in the state. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, the prevalence of diabetes in Penang stood at 18.4%, compared to the national average of 15.5%. Hypertension in Penang was recorded at 31.3% (national average 29.2%), while high cholesterol was 34% (national average 33.3%). Chow said these alarming figures should serve as a wake-up call for Penangites to take better care of their health.
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Health
- New Straits Times
#HEALTH: The 'hard' truth: ED rising among young Malaysian men
ONCE thought of as an ageing man's problem, erectile dysfunction, or ED, is becoming an issue that young Malaysian men are now grappling with. Since bedroom woes are rarely discussed openly in the country, these problems persist among them, resulting in turmoil at home and broken Deputy Health Minister Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni said that two out of three Malaysian men are at risk of ED. The 2019 National Health and Morbidity Survey also indicates that 31.6 per cent of men aged 18 and above have moderate to severe levels of ED. ED is a condition in which a man is unable to maintain an erection that's sufficient for sexual intercourse. It can range from an inability to achieve an erection at all, to difficulty sustaining one throughout intercourse, says senior consultant urologist and lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, Chancellor Tuanku Muhriz Hospital UKM, Professor Datuk Dr Zulkifli Md Zainuddin. Some men may still be able to get an erection, but not consistently, while others may be unable to achieve one despite having sexual desire, he says. Age is a primary factor in ED as the natural ageing process leads to physiological changes in men, such as a decline in testosterone levels and reduced blood vessel function. However, most cases of ED among younger men are caused by other health-related factors that are on the rise, such as diabetes, heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure and low testosterone levels. "These conditions disrupt blood flow, which is essential for normal erectile function." Mental health problems, including stress and depression, are also contributing factors, he adds. Studies show that more young men are experiencing stress due to increasingly complex life pressures, including work-related stress, financial issues and unstable personal relationships. This trend is concerning to health experts not just because it affects sexual function, but also because it may reflect declining health and can serve as an early indicator of coronary heart disease. Dr Zulkifli says young men are more likely to lead sedentary lifestyles, neglect healthy eating habits and engage in smoking and drinking alcohol, and avoid physical exercise. "These habits increase the risk of developing illnesses that contribute to ED. "Coupled with a lack of awareness about sexual health, young men become more vulnerable to this issue." AN UNDENIABLE FACT We are seeing more men in their 30s and 40s presenting with erectile dysfunction in Malaysia. It's not just ageing - it's modern life, says Prince Court Medical Centre consultant urologist Dr Datesh Daneshwar. "Sleep deprivation, vaping, poor metabolic health, and rising testosterone deficiency all contribute to the condition." With 54.4 per cent of Malaysians either overweight or obese based on the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023, and rising rates of diabetes and high blood pressure, the spillover into the bedroom is only to be expected. In Malaysia, more men are experiencing ED at a younger age due to rising rates of diabetes, obesity and stress, says Dr Datesh. Prevention is possible - regular health screenings, clean living and early intervention can make a huge difference. "We need to move away from the idea that ED is inevitable." While "occasional difficulty" in the bedroom is common, persistent ED is not normal at any age, he says. Many men believe it's just part of getting older, but this mindset is dangerous. Dr Datesh says with a proper lifestyle, hormonal balance and vascular health, many men can maintain good sexual function well into their 70s. However, there's a deep cultural stigma in Malaysia where ED is concerned. Men feel ashamed, emasculated, or worry they'll be judged if they open up about their problems. "ED is a treatable medical condition, not a personal failure." These days, more men are starting to come forward, especially when their relationships are affected, but too many still suffer in silence or try unsafe supplements, he adds. "The fear of seeing a doctor is stronger than the problem itself. We must normalise these conversations." ED clinics should be discreet, respectful and scientifically grounded - not run by profit-driven "miracle cure" shops, says Dr Datesh. ED affects far more than sex, he says. It erodes confidence, emotional connection, and self-worth. In Malaysia, where intimacy is rarely discussed openly, many couples suffer in silence. YOUNG AND IMPOTENT Awareness about ED treatment is growing, particularly with discussions on social media, enabling more men to access information about available treatment options, says Dr Zulkifli. However, many turn to unproven remedies. "They may buy unapproved medications or follow advice from unreliable sources, such as so-called 'TikTok doctors." In fact, those with ED should seek treatment from medical professionals rather than relying on vague or risky recommendations. "Proper treatment must be based on an accurate diagnosis by a healthcare professional to avoid unwanted side effects or health risks," says Dr Zulkifli. TREATMENT OPTIONS Recommended treatments for ED include the use of medications such as PDE5 inhibitors, which have been proven effective in helping patients achieve satisfactory erections. "There are various PDE5 inhibitors to suit the sexual needs of patients. Some act within just 10 minutes, while others can last up to 36 hours and more," says Dr Zulkifli. However, patients need to have realistic expectations and understand that treatment may take time, especially for older men, he adds. Aside from medication, other treatments include hormone therapy, vacuum devices, penile injections, and in some cases, surgical implantation of penile prostheses. Each treatment must be tailored to the individual and monitored by doctors. LIFESTYLE CHANGES However, treatment with medication alone is not enough. A healthy lifestyle plays a crucial role in the success of ED treatment. Avoiding harmful habits like smoking, drinking alcohol and physical inactivity is essential. Consistent physical activity can improve blood circulation and boost health, says Dr Zulkifli. Furthermore, maintaining a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits and antioxidant-rich foods can help preserve vascular health and enhance sexual function. He also says that mental and emotional factors must not be overlooked. "Men with ED often face self-confidence issues and strain in their personal relationships. "Therefore, psychological support is important to help them cope with the emotional impact of sexual problems." Therapy such as counselling or support from partners can help reduce stress and improve the mental wellbeing of men experiencing ED. Young men with health issues or unhealthy lifestyles are encouraged to seek treatment early and adopt healthy habits to address this problem. "Taking early steps to care for sexual health and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help prevent ED and improve quality of life." With greater awareness and proper treatment, young men no longer need to feel ashamed or isolated when facing ED. THE HIDDEN FACTOR ONE often-missed cause of ED is Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS), a poorly understood condition involving nerve and muscle dysfunction in the pelvis. CPPS is surprisingly common in younger men and often mislabelled as prostatitis, says Prince Court Medical Centre consultant urologist Dr Datesh Daneshwar. It causes pain, anxiety, and sexual dysfunction. Many men suffer silently for years because no one connects their pelvic pain to their ED. While stress associated with our modern lifestyle is a major trigger for ED, it doesn't act alone. ED often reflects a deeper problem involving hormones, circulation, pelvic muscle tension, or nerve hypersensitivity, especially in men with undiagnosed CPPS, he says. "In Malaysia, I see many men who've been wrongly treated for prostatitis with repeated antibiotics when the real issue is pelvic floor dysfunction causing pain and erection problems." CPPS is a silent epidemic - poorly recognised, under-treated and closely linked to ED. "So yes, stress plays a role, but it often sets off a chain of physical changes that get missed if we don't look deeper." When ED is linked to pelvic pain or CPPS, men may avoid intimacy altogether for fear of discomfort, embarrassment or failure. Their partners may misinterpret this as disinterest. Over time, this creates tension and emotional distance. But with the right help, including pelvic pain assessment, couples can regain intimacy, says Dr Datesh. "We must teach men and their partners that ED and CPPS are medical conditions, not personal flaws."
The Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Kelantan records increase in diabetes, high cholesterol cases
KOTA BHARU: Cases of diabetes and high cholesterol levels among the people in Kelantan recorded an increase exceeding the national average indicator, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. He said that based on the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, 16.3 per cent of the people in Kelantan suffered from diabetes, an increase of 0.7 per cent compared to the national average indicator of 15.6 per cent. 'High cholesterol levels also showed an increase among the people in Kelantan, recording 34.9 per cent. The national average indicator is 33.3 per cent,' he said when opening the Kelantan Wellness Hub Open Day in Pengkalan Chepa, here today, which was also attended by State Health director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin. He said 51.6 per cent of the people in Kelantan (national average is 54.4 per cent) are categorised as overweight or obese, while for high blood pressure, it was 27.9 per cent (national average is 9.2 per cent). He described the findings on Kelantan in the BNHMS 2023 as worrying, although the state recorded better performance in several indicators compared to the national level. 'To address this, the ministry has introduced and implemented the 'Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat' (ANMS) as a platform to mobilise the culture of a healthy lifestyle,' he said.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Kelantan sees spike in diabetes, cholesterol above average
KOTA BHARU: Cases of diabetes and high cholesterol levels among the people in Kelantan recorded an increase exceeding the national average indicator, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. He said that based on the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, 16.3 per cent of the people in Kelantan suffered from diabetes, an increase of 0.7 per cent compared to the national average indicator of 15.6 per cent. 'High cholesterol levels also showed an increase among the people in Kelantan, recording 34.9 per cent. The national average indicator is 33.3 per cent,' he said when opening the Kelantan Wellness Hub Open Day in Pengkalan Chepa, here today, which was also attended by State Health director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin. He said 51.6 per cent of the people in Kelantan (national average is 54.4 per cent) are categorised as overweight or obese, while for high blood pressure, it was 27.9 per cent (national average is 9.2 per cent). He described the findings on Kelantan in the BNHMS 2023 as worrying, although the state recorded better performance in several indicators compared to the national level. 'To address this, the ministry has introduced and implemented the 'Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat' (ANMS) as a platform to mobilise the culture of a healthy lifestyle,' he said.
The Star
3 days ago
- Health
- The Star
Diabetes and high cholesterol cases in Kelantan above national average, says Dzulkefly
Dzulkefly (foreground) participating in a group exercise session at the opening of the Kelantan Wellness Hub Open Day on May 30. – BERNAMApic KOTA BARU: Cases of diabetes and high cholesterol levels in Kelantan have seen an increase exceeding the national average indicators, says Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. He said based on the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, 16.3% of Kelantan folk suffered from diabetes, with the national average indicator at 15.6%. "High cholesterol levels also showed an increase among the people in Kelantan, recording 34.9% against the national average indicator of 33.3%," he said when opening the Kelantan Wellness Hub Open Day in Pengkalan Chepa here on Friday (May 30). Also in attendance was state Health director Datuk Dr Zaini Hussin. Dzulkefly described the findings as worrying, although the state recorded better performance in several indicators against the national level. He said 51.6% of people in the state are categorised as overweight or obese (national average 54.4%), while the high blood pressure figure is 27.9% (national average 29.2%). "To address this, the ministry has introduced and implemented 'Agenda Nasional Malaysia Sihat' (Healthy Malaysia National Agenda) as a platform to mobilise the culture of a healthy lifestyle," he said. – Bernama Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
