PETALING JAYA: One out of five Malaysians has diabetes, which makes them more susceptible to severe Covid-19 infections, says the Health Minister.

       “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,” Khairy Jamaluddin said at the virtual launch of the War Against Diabetes campaign by the Selangor Football Club (FC) and pharmaceutical company Sanofi Aventis Malaysia yesterday.

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

       Khairy said diabetes also led to heart attacks, vision-related ailments such as glaucoma and cataracts, chronic kidney disease as well as nerve and dental problems.

       He said people with diabetes were three to four times more likely to be infected with serious Covid-19 symptoms.

       “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.

       When it comes to exercise, he said there was no need to join expensive sports clubs or gyms or buy expensive equipment.

       “Brisk walking is a good exercise besides jogging, cycling, swimming or doing aerobic exercises at home.

       “Stop with the excuses; just do it,” he said, adding that diet and exercise could control a person’s weight and reduce sugar content in the bloodstream.

       Khairy advised the people to ensure that their glucose level was normal, failing which other health complications could set in.

       “Do go for regular health check-ups to know your health status. For the B40 group, the government has come up with Peka B40, a free health screening initiative for families or individuals aged 40 and above,” he said, adding that people should utilise this initiative to stay healthy.

       He also urged parents to set a good example for their children by leading healthy lifestyles.