Preservatives in processed food are increasing Bangladesh’s risk for high blood pressure and various non-communicable diseases, according to Mohammad Mostafa, a member of Bangladesh Safe Food Authority.
Mostafa’s words came during a webinar hosted by nutrition experts to observe World Food Day, titled “Dietary Habits and High Blood Pressure Risk” and organized by research and advocacy organization PROGGA.
High blood pressure is the world's #1 killer, accounting for 13% of deaths worldwide, and affecting an estimated one billion people globally. A recent study found that in 2021, 40% of 28,000 Bangladeshis surveyed suffered from high blood pressure, which accounts for an estimated 34% of deaths each year.
Other experts also pitched in to Mostafa’s calls to cease unhealthy levels of salt and trans-fats in processed foods.
Nazma Shaheen, Professor of Nutrition and Food Science Institute of Dhaka University, said that the risk of high blood pressure could be reduced by increasing public awareness about the consequences of consuming processed foods.
Abu Jamil Faisal, a public health expert and president elect of Public Health Association of Bangladesh, said that "preventive activities should be increased at the grass root level. All concerned organizations need to work together in addition to campaigning to combat high blood pressure and other non-communicable diseases.”
The World Health Organization advises that unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, and being overweight pose risks for high blood pressure, but this can be counteracted by practicing healthy habits.
Muhammad Ruhul Quddus, Bangladesh country lead of GHAI, emphasized the need for both policy measures and awareness campaigns to tackle the issue of hypertension.
World Food Day 2024 will be observed under the theme “Right to Foods for a Better Life and a Better Future.”