Minister Mariya Encourages Maldivians to Adopt Healthy Lifestyle Choices to Prevent Cancer

Minister of Agriculture and Welfare Dr Maryam Mariya has urged Maldivians to adopt healthier lifestyle choices to prevent cancer.

Yesterday, February 4, was World Cancer Day. To mark the occasion, Minister Mariya said that if cancer is detected early, treatment is easy. She highlighted the blessing of good health and encouraged people to adopt good and healthy habits, even if they have to start them today.

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One thing she focused on was the importance of healthy eating. She urged Maldivians to move away from heavily processed foods and decrease their sugar intake, while also increasing the amount of fresh fruits, vegetables and fish from the sea.

She additionally called upon people to live more active lifestyles and recommended everyone to partake in at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day.  She especially emphasised on healthy sleep habits and water intake as well. 

Minister Mariya noted the importance of routine doctor check-ups and recommended people to give up smoking as well. 

According to HPA, there are over 1,600 registered cancer patients in the country at the moment. They encourage Maldivians to take advantage of available healthcare services and screen for cancer beforehand for earlier detection in addition to letting go of habits that lead to cancer such as smoking and chewing areca nuts.