The dangers of modern lifestyle: Dr. Mohammad Qandieh's tips for better health
In an era of rapid technological advancement and radically changing lifestyles, public health faces unprecedented challenges unlike any seen before in human history. Traditional epidemics are no longer humanity's primary enemy; they have been replaced by what are known as "diseases of civilization" or non-communicable diseases, which silently infiltrate bodies as a result of excessive affluence and unhealthy daily habits.
In an exclusive and comprehensive interview with Al-Youm, Dr. Mohammed Bakr Saleh Qandieh, a consultant in family and community medicine, sounded the alarm about the health consequences of the modern lifestyle. He emphasized that the complete reliance on technology and excessive consumption of fast food have become the greatest threats, causing the onset of premature aging, heart disease, and diabetes in younger age groups. This represents a worrying demographic and health shift that demands serious attention.
The technology tax: from luxury to disease
Dr. Qandeh explained that while technology has numerous benefits in simplifying life, it has also imposed a pattern of forced physical inactivity. The long hours individuals spend in front of screens, whether for work or leisure, have led to a significant decline in physical activity levels. This prolonged sitting not only affects muscles and joints but also disrupts metabolic processes, paving the way for obesity and insulin resistance.
He added that “digital chaos” and the overlap of the virtual world with the real world have raised stress and anxiety levels, especially among young people and children, as constant social comparisons via social media platforms have become a constant source of psychological pressure.
Fast food... the silent killer
In a related context, the consultant pointed out that the global shift towards fast food has altered the health landscape of societies. These meals, saturated with hydrogenated fats, sugars, and salts, lack genuine nutritional value and act as fuel for chronic diseases. He emphasized that the rising rates of type 2 diabetes and heart disease among young people are not coincidental, but rather a direct result of this unbalanced diet, coupled with a lack of physical activity.
Roadmap for prevention and treatment
Dr. Qandeh did not merely diagnose the problem, but also presented a comprehensive vision for the solution, emphasizing that modern medicine with its advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and nanotechnology, despite its enormous ability to accurately diagnose and target treatment, cannot alone work miracles without behavioral change from the patient.
He called for a return to the basics of a healthy lifestyle, which include:
- Regulating the biological clock: through sufficient sleep at night to boost immunity.
- Nutritional balance: Returning to home-cooked meals rich in vegetables and fiber.
- Physical activity: Making movement an integral part of the daily routine.
- Mental health: Managing stress and staying away from sources of digital anxiety and sports fanaticism that strain the heart and nerves.
The doctor concluded his speech by emphasizing the importance of preventive medicine, including regular check-ups for early detection of diseases such as breast cancer and vitamin deficiencies, and adherence to the vaccination schedule, considering health awareness to be the first line of defense to protect society from modern diseases.
