If you are a person of South Asian origin, especially from the countries of the Sub-Continent, you should be aware of a number of health issues.
Research and sample studies have proved that an increasing number of Indians (from any part of the world), Pakistanis, Bangladeshis and Sri Lankans suffer from a number of ailments including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.
The problem is that many of them would not be aware of their condition or as experts say, ‘just do not care until it is too late to seek remedy.’
The problem is compounded by their refusal to seek regular medical check-up.
Procare Health Limited, an Auckland based entity, is organising ‘Health Day’ later this month, as a part of its efforts to promote greater awareness of the ways and means of remaining healthy.
The event will be held on February 27 at the Lynfield Recreation Centre (Griffen Park Road) in Mt Roskill from 1 pm to 4 pm.
Although aimed predominantly at the South Asian population, ‘Health Day’ is open to people from all ethnic groups.
Event Organiser and Coordinator Purvi Chhichhia (a qualified nutritionist) said the core theme of the event was ‘Khayal Rakhiye Apni Dil Ki Dhadkan Ka’ (‘Take care of your heart beat’).
“The main purpose of the forthcoming ‘Health Day’ is to foster healthy eating behaviour in people and acquaint them of the opportunities available for physical activities.
“These include “Bollyrobix’ (Aerobics combined with Bollywood music) and ‘Bollypump’ (Weight resistance training and aerobics set to Bollywood music)” she said.
Ella Kumar, a popular community worker, who was elected to the Puketapapa (including Mt Roskill) Local Board at the Local Body elections held in October 2010, will conduct the programme along with Zumba.
Ms Chhichhia and South Asian Diabetes Nurse Faieza Ali Khan will speak respectively on ‘Nutritional aspects of the common ailments’ and the ‘Risk and health implications of obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.’
“The New Zealand Heart Foundation will present ‘Five simple steps to eating for a healthy heart’ and an e-tool for measuring the risk of heart attack or stroke.
“Ethnic Communications and the Northern DHB Support Agency will promote the ‘Eat Right, Be Active and say JAI HO’ Campaign,” Ms Chhichhia said.
‘Arthritis New Zealand’ experts will outline its services, and explain the different types of Arthritis that afflict people.
What: Health Day
Organised by: Procare Health Limited
Where: Lynfield Recreation Centre
16 Griffen Park Road, Mt Roskill
When: Sunday, February 27, 2011 from 1 pm
Contact: Purvi Chhichhia on (09) 3757815 or 021-2221405
Email: purvi.chhichhia<at>procare.co.nz
