HEALTH- The festive season, particularly Christmas, is a time of joy and celebration. However, amid the festivities, several public health concerns arise that need attention. Experts from various fields, including health, road safety, gender-based violence, nutrition, and community health, offer valuable insights on how to stay healthy, safe, and happy during this time of year.
Healthy living for Non-Communicable Diseases: A Guide from Prof. Kalyesubula Robert
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease are among the leading causes of illness and death globally. According to Prof. Kalyesubula Robert, Consultant Physician and Head of Physiology at Makerere University, the festive season is a time when many people indulge in unhealthy eating habits, which can exacerbate these conditions.
Prof. Kalyesubula emphasizes the importance of making healthier food choices, even when surrounded by festive treats. “It’s easy to overeat during this period due to the abundance of food, but it’s essential to prioritize a balanced diet,” he says. He advises people, particularly those with NCDs, to monitor their food intake, control portion sizes, and avoid excessive consumption of sugary foods, salty snacks, and alcohol.
Moreover, Prof. Kalyesubula suggests incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into meals, and ensuring adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water. Regular physical activity, even in small amounts, can also help maintain healthy blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, and manage weight.
Road Safety: A Critical Concern by SP Kananura Michael
The Christmas holidays are marked by an increase in travel, family gatherings, and road activities, which unfortunately leads to a rise in road accidents. SP Kananura Michael, PRO of the Directorate of Road Safety and Traffic, underscores the importance of road safety during the festive season.
“Many people travel long distances during Christmas, and this often leads to fatigue, speeding, and reckless driving. To reduce the risk of road accidents, it’s vital to plan journeys ahead, take breaks during long drives, and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol,” advises Kananura.
He also recommends ensuring that vehicles are in good condition, with properly inflated tires, working brakes, and well-maintained engines. Drivers and passengers alike should always wear seat belts, and children should be properly secured in car seats.
Gender-Based Violence: A Call for Awareness from Counsel Esther Dhafa
The festive season can also be a time of increased stress, which may lead to incidents of gender-based violence (GBV). Counsel Esther Dhafa, a lawyer at the Centre for Health, Human Rights and Development (CEHURD), raises concern about the rise in GBV cases during the holidays, particularly in homes.
“Stress from financial pressures, alcohol consumption, and family tensions often lead to violence in homes during Christmas,” says Dhafa. She urges individuals to be mindful of their behaviours, seek help if necessary, and reach out to available resources for support in situations of violence. She also emphasizes the importance of communication and conflict resolution within families, as well as the role of communities in protecting vulnerable individuals from abuse.
Additionally, Dhafa calls for increased awareness about legal rights and support mechanisms available for survivors of GBV. Creating safe spaces and promoting dialogue around healthy relationships is key to preventing violence during the festive period.
The Need for Nutrition Control: Ms. Tukamushaba Precious’s Expert Advice
The festive season is often synonymous with indulgence, with tables filled with a variety of delicious foods. Ms. Tukamushaba Precious a Nutritionist, highlights the need for controlling one’s diet despite the abundance of food.
“The temptation to overeat is high during the holidays, but it’s important to be mindful of how much we eat and what we put in our bodies,” says Tukamushaba. She advises people to practice moderation, suggesting that smaller portions, balanced meals, and mindful eating can prevent overconsumption of unhealthy foods.
Tukamushaba also encourages individuals to focus on the nutritional value of what they consume, making sure meals are rich in proteins, vitamins, and fibres. “Controlling the mouth amidst plenty is essential to prevent long-term health complications, especially for those with existing health conditions,” she adds.
Community Health Strategies: Dr. Gilbert A. Mateka’s Recommendations
As people enjoy the holidays, Dr. Gilbert A. Mateka, District Health Officer (DHO) of Kabale District, offers a reminder that maintaining community health during the festive season requires collective responsibility. Dr. Mateka emphasizes the importance of sanitation, disease prevention, and health education to ensure that communities remain safe and healthy.
“During the festive season, people often neglect basic health practices, such as proper handwashing and safe food handling, which can lead to the spread of diseases,” Dr. Mateka warns. He urges local communities to stay vigilant by ensuring that their drinking water sources are clean, food is safely prepared, and public health guidelines are followed.
Additionally, Dr. Mateka encourages individuals to get aware of the rising cases of MPOX in the country, especially against preventable diseases like MPOX, as the high number of social gatherings increases the risk of transmission. He also stresses the role of community leaders in promoting health and wellbeing, ensuring that people understand the importance of hygiene, nutrition, and safe practices during the festive period.
Therefore,
While the Christmas season is a time for celebration and joy, it is also essential to consider the various public health concerns that arise. From managing chronic conditions with healthy eating habits to promoting road safety, preventing GBV, controlling indulgence in food, and ensuring community health, experts agree that a proactive approach can help ensure that the festive period remains safe and healthy for all, following expert advice and taking responsibility for our actions, we can celebrate the season in a way that prioritizes our health, safety, and wellbeing.
