PETALING JAYA: One out of five Malaysians has diabetes and this makes diabetics more susceptible to Covid-19 infection and have serious symptoms, says Khairy Jamaluddin.

       “The National Health and Morbidity Survey 2019 found that the percentage of diabetes patients in Malaysia had increased from 13.4% in 2015 to 18.3% in 2019.

       “This report shows that one in five adults aged 18 and above in Malaysia lives with diabetes.

       “It’s equivalent to almost four million Malaysians,” the Health Minister said at the virtual launch of the War Against Diabetes campaign by the Selangor FC and pharmaceutical company Sanofi Aventis Malaysia on Wednesday (April 6).

       Also present at the event was Selangor Crown Prince Tengku Amir Shah, who is also Selangor FC chairman.

       He said diabetes also leads to other serious diseases such as heart attacks; vision-related ailments such as glaucoma and cataracts; chronic kidney disease; as well as nerve and dental problems, including stroke.

       Khairy noted that people with diabetes are three to four times more likely to be infected with serious Covid-19 symptoms compared with individuals who do not have the disease.

       “Diabetes is not only associated with excessive sugar intake, but it is also closely linked to uncontrolled eating and unhealthy lifestyle practices.

       “So it is important for all of us to maintain a healthy and balanced diet and adopt an active lifestyle,” he said.

       Khairy urged parents to set a good example for their children by having healthy living habits.