SIBU: The public has been advised to go for regular health screening so that they will know the status of their health.
Speaking at a Health Screening Awareness Campaign in conjunction with the World Diabetes Day 2019 Celebration yesterday, Sibu MP Oscar Ling said one could prevent illnesses like diabetes from getting worse if they were detected early.
The half-day campaign at the Central Market here was jointly organised by the Sibu Parliamentary Constituency Service Centre, Sibu Hospital, Sibu Division Health Department, Sibu Division Dentistry Department and Sarawak Midwives Association Sibu Branch.
About 500 people participated in the campaign which was aimed at educating the public on early prevention and detection of diabetes, and also to allows for early treatment of the disease.
According to Ling, a woman who came for the campaign was shocked to discover that she had diabetes.
“All the while this woman thought that she was healthy. She has been referred to Sibu Hospital for further action,” he added.
Ling said if diabetes was not detected early, it could result in patients having to amputate their limbs and the disease might also affect other organs.
He also advised the public to refrain from consuming too much sugar as doing so might cause them to have diabetes.
“Do not consume too much of white rice as research has shown that it is one of the major causes of diabetes,” he added.
On the campaign, he said it would be held again next year due to the encouraging response.
“Pakatan Harapan is concern with the health of the people. It has instituted the Mysalam platform which also aimed to create awareness on the importance of one’s health,” he added.
The actual World Diabetes day is celebrated on November 4 every year. However, it was only organised here yesterday so as to encourage the participation of the public.
Activities organised during the campaign include: exhibition booth of information regarding diabetes mellitus and HIV, free blood sugar level checking, screening for pulmonary tuberculosis, dental examination, mental health screening and blood pressure monitoring with counseling sessions.
There was also a demonstration on preparation of diabetic food by dietitian during the event. Doctors, dental officers, pharmacists, dietitians and diabetes educators were there to provide counseling during the campaign.
Among those present was director of Sibu Hospital, Dr Ngian Hie Ung.
