Unhealthy dietary habits, particularly excessive consumption of trans fats and salt, are significantly increasing the risk of hypertension-related non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and deaths in Bangladesh. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), poor eating habits, lack of physical activity, and obesity are modifiable risk factors for hypertension. Speakers at a webinar stressed that adopting healthier dietary habits can greatly reduce the risk of hypertension and other NCDs.
The webinar, titled "Dietary Habit and Hypertension Risk," was organized by research and advocacy organization PROGGA (Knowledge for Progress) in collaboration with the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI) on Monday, October 15, 2024, to mark World Food Day. This year’s theme, "Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future," underscored the importance of healthy nutrition.
Dr. Nazma Shaheen, Professor at the Institute of Nutrition and Food Science at Dhaka University, highlighted that “Excessive salt and trans fats, commonly found in processed foods, elevate the risk of hypertension. Raising awareness about the dangers of these foods can help reduce the risk.”
Dr. Mohammad Mostafa, Member (Public Health and Nutrition) of the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority (BFSA), added, “The growing use of preservatives in food is contributing to various non-communicable diseases, including hypertension. Immediate action is needed, and BFSA must collaborate with research institutes to ensure food safety.”
Dr. Abu Jamil Faisel, President-Elect of the Public Health Association of Bangladesh, called for “Increased preventive programs at the grassroots level, supported by campaigns and coordinated efforts, to tackle hypertension and other NCDs.”
Muhammad Ruhul Quddus, Bangladesh Country Lead of GHAI, emphasized the need for both policy measures and awareness campaigns to address the issue of hypertension effectively.
Other discussants included Dr. Modhura Chowdhury, Manager (Health and Wellbeing) at BRAC, Morshed Noman, Deputy Editor of Bangladesh First, and ABM Zubair, Executive Director of PROGGA. The webinar was moderated by Sadia Galiba Prova, Coordinator at PROGGA, and was attended by participants from various professions across the country.
