In the efforts to reduce the high incidence of Non-Communicable Diseases in Fiji, the Health Ministry in partnership Westpac Fiji and Fiji Physiotherapy Association is promoting “Westpac Morning Walk” which is an annual event.
Health Minister Dr Neil Sharma said globally 6 per cent of deaths each year were attributed to physical inactivity.
“Move for health basically encourages people to participate in physical activity and this will contribute to healthy living among individuals,” Dr Sharma said.
“Non-Communicable Diseases has risen over the past years with diabetes at the top but to prevent this we need to eat healthy and exercise regularly.
“People should take ownership of their health and ensure they live a healthy lifestyle.”
Westpac Bank General Manager Adrian Hughes said the annual walk was to create awareness with the aim of combating NCD’s such as diabetes, heart attack and rheumatic heart problems.
“Through these initiatives we are able to create solutions on how we can combat NCD and encourage people to live healthy,” Mr Hughes said.
The event will be held on Saturday, the 29th of March at various locations around the country –Suva, Nadi, Lautoka, Tavua, Levuka and Labasa .
Members of the public will be able to access health checks, exercise advise by qualified physiotherapists.
He commended the Ministry of Health for its continuous support in combating NCD and has encouraged every Fijian to be part of the event.
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