Kampala: Minister for health Jane Ruth Acheng says Uganda is set to mark National Day of Physical Activity that is aimed awareness about the importance of physical activity to beat non communicable diseases (NCDs) and live healthy.
Uganda NCD risk factor survey (2014) showed Hugh Physical inactivity was noted in the urban population where eight per cent of adults were considered inactive compared to 3.5 per cent among rural population.
In a media briefing at ministry of health headquarters Acheng said, national Day of Physical Activity will be inaugurated with a number of activities which include eight to ten kilometer walk that will be led by president Museveni, Aerobics, a run around the Kololo Airstrip and a number of games such as Football, Volleyball and Netball.
Under theme ‘Be Physically Active, Be healthy’ Acheng said National Day of Physical Activity will be flagged off by president Museveni on 8 July 2018. There will be screening for NCDs and every one interested in participation will be guided on which form of Physical Activity to engage into.
“Physical Activity is any form of bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure. Being physically inactive is a major risk factor for developing Non Communicable Diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes,”
Acheng said, Increased Physical Activity should be combined with eating healthy- eat more fruits and vegetables, Reduce intake of salt and sugars, Stop smoking and consumption of tobacco, Limit consumption of alcohol.
She appeal to all individuals to engage in physical activity by dedicating at least 30 minutes to one hour every day to burn excess calories.