What Are NCDs?
NCDs (Non-Communicable Diseases) are chronic, non-infectious illnesses that develop gradually over time. They are not caused by pathogens and cannot spread between people. These diseases often progress silently, with symptoms accumulating unnoticed until they become severe and life-threatening. Without regular health screenings, patients may miss early intervention, leading to complications like permanent disability (e.g., post-stroke bedriddenness) or chronic conditions (e.g., post-heart attack breathlessness).

Common NCDs

1. Diabetes:

   • Uncontrolled high blood sugar, leading to complications like blindness, kidney failure, and chronic foot ulcers.

2. Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Diseases:

   • Caused by fatty plaque buildup in arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart and brain. Results in:

     • Heart attacks, heart failure.

     • Stroke (blocked or ruptured brain vessels), paralysis.

3. Emphysema (COPD):

   • Lung inflammation damaging air sacs, often due to smoking.

4. Cancer:

   • Abnormal cell growth. Common types: liver, lung, and colorectal cancer.

5. Hypertension:

   • Abnormally high blood pressure from aging, sedentary lifestyles, or high-salt diets, causing arterial hardening and narrowing.

6. Abdominal Obesity:

   • Metabolic dysfunction from excessive sugar/fried food intake and lack of exercise. Fat accumulates around the waist, raising risks of diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

Risk Behaviors Leading to NCDs

• Diets high in sugar, salt, or fat.

• Alcohol consumption and smoking.

• Physical inactivity and poor sleep.

• Chronic stress.

• Self-medicating (e.g., painkillers, herbal pills) without medical advice.

How to Reduce NCD Risks

• Eat balanced meals: Prioritize vegetables and low-sugar fruits.

• Limit sodium to <2,500 mg/day (≈1 tsp salt).

• Reduce sugar intake.

• Avoid processed/fried foods.

• Exercise regularly.

• Manage stress and prioritize sleep.

Conclusion
NCDs are largely preventable through lifestyle changes. Early detection via regular checkups and proactive health management can avert severe complications.

Consult specialists at Synphaet Thepharak Hospital for personalized care.