The number one killer of Malaysians is still cardiovascular disease and most of these cases are preventable via medications and most importantly, lifestyle changes. Changing the way and what we eat sounds like a simple thing to do but the advice is usually ignored or pushed away with a simple “Tomorrow lah”.
This kind of attitude is why preventable diseases are still threatening Malaysians. 1Twenty80 speaks to Pharmacist, Cheng Boon Piang, Manager of Sunway Pharmacy @ GEO & Home Care Supplies, on his opinions about the health of Malaysians and insights on how to better our overall health.
1Twenty80: In your opinion, what’s the biggest threat to the health to Malaysians?
Cheng: I think that the biggest threat to the health of Malaysians is our food and also our unhealthy lifestyle. Malaysian food is often very salty and fatty but coupled with a sedentary lifestyle, this poses a serious threat to our health.
1Twenty80: How can Malaysians play a proactive role in taking charge of their health?
Cheng: Make it a must to exercise twice a week and eat healthily so that means, no supper! I know it sounds hard but it’s very doable. Additionally, do go for an annual body check as a preventive measure. Something that’s often overlooked is to spend quality time with your family members and loved ones to help destress.
1Twenty80: What is a common mistake that people tend to make when making decisions with regards to their health?
Cheng: Many think that a simple cough or the flu isn’t a major illness. However, the symptoms could actually point to serious health problems. Additionally, some customers may self-diagnose or buy the same medicines and supplements that their friends take without telling the pharmacist. Rest assured, serious medications such as blood pressure medications are prescription-only and won’t be given out without a prescription from a doctor. Another thing is that people don’t do their annual body check because they think they’re still young and healthy.
1Twenty80: There are different services available at pharmacies but what makes yours different?
Cheng: We want to build lasting relationships with our clients which is why we like to ask questions about their medications, blood pressure and so on. From the information gathered, we’ll know what kind of supplements to recommend and possibly advise on lifestyle changes.
Additionally, to strengthen our bond with the community, we provide home nursing services. If our clients buy rehabilitation products such as adult diapers or wheelchairs, we can provide a professional nurse to send to their home. Our home nurses are trained at Sunway Medical Centre and are able to carry out wound dressing, physiotherapy and other services for bedridden patients.
For bedridden patients, we also provide services where we can send doctors to their home as well. All this can be requested for at the pharmacy.
1Twenty80: How can the community be more aware in differentiating between facts and unscrupulous health information?
Cheng: I always tell my clients to check with a health professional if they have any doubts. To increase your knowledge, going to health talks and attending roadshows can also help. The search bar on the internet may seem like it has all the answers but sometimes, those answers might not be right.
1Twenty80: We face stress every single day of our life so what is your advice in managing stress?
Cheng: Try to avoid unnecessary stress by properly planning you day and tasks. Prioritise your daily tasks to avoid anxiety when something isn’t done on time or correctly. View stressful situations from a positive perspective and accept that some things just cannot be controlled.
1Twenty80: What is your health philosophy?
Cheng: Definitely, prevention is better than cure! Don’t wait until the sickness comes to you. Always take good care of yourself by drinking lots of water since we live in a hot country, get enough sleep and have regular exercise sessions. Most importantly, think positively!
The current economic climate isn’t great and that could contribute to mental duress which could cause us to get sick easily. However, it is very important to take charge of your health and be in the moment!
1Twenty80: How do you maintain a healthy lifestyle?
Cheng: I do a lot of exercise! I play basketball and it turns into a social gathering as well afterwards. We do this twice a week.
I love reading self-help books as well which helps lead me to think positively.
1Twenty80: What inspired you to be a pharmacist?
Cheng: Well, firstly, I liked Chemistry at school and it lead me to pursue Pharmacy which is very unique! I enjoy talking to people as well and sharing knowledge, like educating the public on health matters.
1Twenty80: What is your message to our community about staying healthy?
Cheng: Eating the right food and keeping your body fit will help you to cope better with stress and also to fight illnesses. Try to get eight hours of sleep because lack of sleep can negatively impact your body’s internal organs. For people above the age of 35 years old, an annual body check-up is very important as a preventive step.
