BEING the fifth most populous country in the world, Pakistan continues to be trappedundertheburden ofnoncommunicable diseases. Among the ailments that are endemic and continue to take precious lives, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) appear to be one of the prime areas of concern. As per an estimate, 317,850 people died of CVDs in 2020, which was over 21 per cent of the total deaths.

Thus far, we have failed to be fully active about the contribution of CVDs to the burden of disease and death.

Consumption of edible oil in Pakistan has reached a startling 24kg per person per year, which is a drastic increase over the last 30 years. Such consumption has severe health implications in the form of cardiovascular complications.

Additionally, the intake of fast food and sweetened, carbonated drinks has gone up rather steeply, making the two industries flourish at the cost of the health of millions.

Moreover, increased edible consumption of oil is directly related to rise in obesity, which, in turn, has direct linkage with diabetes and cardiac complications.

Food habits play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy life. Relying on green food, such as eating a plant-based diet while reducing meat consumption, can be a good step to start with.

Selecting the right proportions and eating a balanced diet can go a long way towards keeping CVDs at bay.

Kaleem Ahmed Islamabad