**Awareness: an effective weapon against cardiovascular diseases**
Cardiovascular diseases constitute a major public health issue in the Democratic Republic of Congo. With an alarming increase in their frequency, it becomes imperative to act proactively to stem this scourge. It is in this context that awareness-raising appears to be the most effective weapon to prevent and fight against these non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Emmanuel Limbole, director of the National Program to Combat Cardiovascular Diseases, emphasizes the crucial importance of prevention through awareness. Indeed, awareness of risks and risky behaviors is essential to encourage individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles. Faced with the increasing Westernization of eating and living habits, it is essential to remember the importance of consuming healthy, unprocessed foods, as well as regular physical activity.
The link between diet and cardiovascular disease is undeniable. A diet too rich in fats, sugars and salt, combined with a low consumption of fruits and vegetables, increases the risks of developing cardiovascular pathologies. Likewise, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical exercise and psychosocial stress constitute major risk factors to take into account in the prevention of these diseases.
Furthermore, awareness raising is not limited to informing people about the dangers of unhealthy behaviors. It must also promote positive alternatives accessible to all. Encouraging a balanced diet, practicing regular physical activity, managing stress and fighting addictions are all preventive measures that can help reduce the incidence of cardiovascular diseases.
Ultimately, awareness raising remains an essential lever in the fight against cardiovascular diseases in the DRC. By informing and educating the population about the risks and good practices to adopt, it makes it possible to effectively prevent these pathologies and promote better health for all. Thus, investing in awareness represents an investment in the future for the health of the Congolese population.