Seeking better health: Patients waiting to collect their medicine at the hospital pharmacy after their check-up at Penang Hospital in George Town, Penang. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Over 1,100 patients on average sought specialist treatment daily at Hospital Penang in 2023, posing a heavy burden on healthcare personnel.
This was an increase of about 200 patients or 17% more compared with the average 975 patients recorded daily in 2021.
Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Bertam medical centre family medicine specialist Dr Mastura Mohd Sopian said the number of people with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and obesity was on the rise.
“Most of us live a sedentary lifestyle with increased odds of physical inactivity, excessive eating and sitting, stress, anxiety and depression.
“This is what could have led to the increase in the statistics. The main health issues are obesity, mental health and an unhealthy lifestyle,” she said.
Dr Mastura said keeping track of one’s body weight and limiting unhealthy food could go a long way in maintaining good health.
“People need to eat healthier food, drink water to stay hydrated and avoid sugary drinks.
“Instead, drink water and be physically active by incorporating a regular exercise regime into your schedule.
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“Getting enough sleep is also vital,” she added.
Dr Mastura also advised the public to go for health screenings regularly as early detection could mean a quicker prognosis and treatment.
“The more we screen, the more we will get the actual number of people living with these diseases. The earlier we diagnose, the better, as we can treat and prevent complications related to these diseases,” she said.
Diabetic Society of Penang president Ronnie Teoh said diabetes is a precursor to a number of other ailments.
“It is a silent disease and many do not know until they check their blood glucose levels.
“As age catches up, they should be vigilant. Some 50% of kidney-related diseases are caused by diabetes. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely than others to develop cardiovascular disease.
“Our advice is to watch your diet and exercise. It is important to control your sugar intake and not take it lightly,” he said.
Teoh said another reason for the spike in the number of patients at public hospitals could be due to the higher cost of living.
“Many people can no longer afford private hospitals,” he added.
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Rose Charities Malaysia president Datuk Lawrence Cheah said the health of senior citizens has declined at a worrying rate and needs to be addressed.
“We have almost 1,000 members aged between 50 and 95, and most of them have some ailment, with diabetes being the largest concern.
“I have noticed that since the Covid-19 pandemic, there are more people susceptible to health issues. This could be due to lifestyle changes and being idle.
“Many seniors, especially those who turned 70, stay home as their children have moved away or are working. Elderly couples are cooped up in their homes.
“Even those living alone do not make the effort to go out and meet friends or find ways to socialise. They do not walk much and this eventually leads to their health declining,” he said.
Cheah said the simple act of walking around more could make a difference.
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“Walking is the best form of exercise and it is free.
“Reducing sugar in our drinks may seem like a small matter but a tiny change like that in the long run will help reduce the chances of getting diabetes.
“The younger ones eat healthier, but the older generation is used to the staple local food which is not good for one’s health,” he said.
Penang health committee chairman Daniel Gooi said 355,906 patients sought specialist treatment at Hospital Penang in 2021, with the daily average at 975 patients.
“In 2022, it was 397,201 for the whole year and the (daily) average was 1,088. As of August 2023, the total was 276,967, which is an average of 1,140 patients a day.
“The Covid-19 pandemic has posed new challenges for healthcare in our community.
“The shifting into a new working environment like working from home and our stressful lifestyle since Covid-19 has contributed to the increase in patients.
“We need to emphasise the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and be more health conscious,” he added.
