Physiotherapy key in promoting healthy lifestyle
RISING obesity figures especially among women in Zambia have sparked renewed efforts for application of physiotherapy treatment, says Lweendo Mapani, a young lecturer at Lusaka Apex Medical University (LAMU).
Ms Mapani said a comprehensive application of physiotherapy in the prevention and treatment of non-communicable diseases, was key in the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.
“This particular branch of health sciences speaks to the core of promoting healthy living among citizens, and ultimately boosting national productivity,” said Ms Mapani, a lecturer in the faculty of health sciences.
Adding: “It is for this reason LAMU is in discussions with other stakeholders to ensure a wider application of physiotherapy. This also stresses the importance of the study of physiotherapy which is one of the courses under our faculty.”
Non-communicable diseases, which could seriously undermine a country's social and economic development, were progressively killing more people worldwide, according to a new report issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Examples of non-communicable diseases include stroke, diabetes, cancer and heart disease.
According to WHO, most of the deaths from non-communicable diseases occur in developing nations.