IN Pakistan, both urban and rural areas are facing a myriad of health issues, which, if not fully eradicated, should be diminished to the extent that they do not pose a threat to the common man. To address these issues, multi-faceted approaches starting with a reasonable allocation in the national budget are necessary. The concerned authorities and the masses should put their concerted efforts into launching public awareness campaigns, with the help of electronic and print media, as well as social media for dissemination. This will help promote hygienic practices and reduce the unnecessary burden on healthcare institutions.
Among these, water-borne diseases are significant. Diseases such as cholera, typhoid, paratyphoid fever, dysentery, malaria, jaundice, amoebiasis, and diarrhoea are caused by the non-availability of potable water. Potable water is a basic need, and it is the state’s responsibility to provide it to the masses, as well as to repair, clean, and regularly maintain water supply tanks and pipes.
Coal miners are poor, vulnerable, and often have an uneducated background. Poverty compels them to work in environments where they inhale poisonous gases and face the constant threat of mine accidents. The lives of these young coal miners, the majority of whom come from backward areas, are at constant risk of tuberculosis and lung cancer. The government should also hold mine owners accountable and ensure hygienic and risk-free working conditions for this vulnerable class, who work under difficult conditions to earn a livelihood for their families.
Common diseases are often caused by garbage piles and heaps of filth, which lead to the spread of mosquitoes and other harmful insects. These piles need to be removed promptly to prevent the spread of diseases and environmental pollution. Municipalities, union councils, NGOs, communities, and individual households must work together to maintain cleanliness with a zero-waste policy. The edible and food items sold in our country are often adulterated and sold in unhygienic conditions. Their sale should be strictly prohibited. The Federal and Provincial Food Authorities must take action to enhance food testing capabilities and strengthen efforts to combat the proliferation of harmful food products.
Some pharmaceutical industries are producing low-quality, second- and third-grade medicines and selling them at cheap rates, endangering the lives of ordinary citizens. This practice can only be controlled by the government through strict enforcement of regulations. Health clinics and hospitals, which play a vital role in disease prevention, must also help control this issue by reporting it promptly to the Drug Regulatory Authority and ensuring appropriate action is taken.
Cardiac diseases are widespread in our country, mostly caused by oily, fast food, fat-enriched meals and poor sleep patterns. Junk foods, which are high in fat and low in fibre, not only cause the deposition of bad fats in the blood vessels but also contribute to other complications, such as heart diseases and constipation. Diabetes and hypertension (high blood pressure) further worsen the condition.
Early detection and screening can easily prevent these diseases from progressing. Simple lifestyle modifications, such as eating breakfast and exercising regularly, can help in reducing the risk of heart diseases. People are urged to understand these issues to live in a socially healthy environment. Collaborative efforts among the community, NGOs, and local governments are essential for addressing these challenges, which can lead to an improvement in overall health, fostering a peaceful and healthy Pakistan.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
