Government spends RM4 billion annually on treatment of diabetes-related ailments

THE amount spent by the Federal Government for the treatment of diabetes-related ailments in government clinics and hospitals nationwide has hit the RM 4 billion mark annually.

The percentage of Malaysian adults suffering from obesity has surged beyond the 50 per cent adult population mark.

These worrying figures were revealed recently by the Health Ministry, said Member of Parliament for Sibu, Oscar Ling.

Speaking at a gathering with native community leaders in Sibu in central Sarawak, he said obesity and diabetes-related ailments are closely linked.

"It is a huge sum that the Health Ministry is spending this year to finance the treatment of diabetes and related diseases.

"The amount will increase annually as the number of such diseases continues to rise throughout the country.

"More than 50 percent of Malaysian adults are obese already and health problems are increasing as a result.

"There is an urgent need to cut down consumption of sugary items, alcohol and other bad foodstuffs and the need to get more daily exercise," he said.

Ling said obesity and diabetes woes are no longer only found in urban districts but in rural districts in Sarawak too.

It is not only Malaysian adults who are getting fat, but also children.

Statistics compiled by the federal Health Ministry showed that an average of three in every 10 school-going children and even pre-teens are classified as obese in Malaysia.

The main causes identified for this worrying situation are the constant consumption of junk food like fast food and sweet drinks plus lack of physical exercise. - November 20, 2024