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Dr. Erum Siddiqui

The Burden of Cardiovascular Diseases in Malaysia

The most recent statistics published by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2020 conveyed a grave picture: coronary heart disease accounted for 36,729 deaths in Malaysia, comprising 21.86% of the total mortality. When scrutinized against global metrics, Malaysia's age-adjusted death rate stood at 136.21 per 100,000 of the population, placing the nation at the 61st position worldwide. Diving deeper, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, ischemic heart diseases have persistently been the primary cause of death, accounting for 17.0% of the 109,155 medically certified deaths in 2020. Dis-aggregated by gender, this ailment predominantly affected males (19.3% of 65,918 deaths) over females (13.4% of 43,237 deaths).


A Closer Look at Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome, which afflicts between 25 to 40% of Malaysia's adult populace, comes with risks that heighten with age. Alarmingly, even obese children are not spared. Among the ethnic groups, Indian descent showed the highest prevalence, trailed by Malay and Chinese. A direct correlation was observed with socioeconomic factors— individuals residing in urban locales, those unemployed, with lower income and educational attainment, and shift workers exhibited a higher prevalence of this syndrome.


Metabolic syndrome (MetS) embodies a cluster of metabolic irregularities. These comprise abdominal obesity, hypertensive tendencies (as evident from systolic or diastolic blood pressure readings), elevated fasting blood glucose, and dyslipidemia, manifesting as heightened triglyceride levels or diminished high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. It's paramount to recognize the inherent risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus associated with MetS.

The Role of Free Radicals in Aging and Health

But, what exactly are free radicals? At the cellular level, these are highly reactive molecules, often byproducts of myriad cellular activities. Their impact on the human physiology is profound, inducing oxidative stress that jeopardizes immunity, expedites aging, and compromises cardiovascular health, joint function, and even the genesis of cancers. Alarmingly, these radicals are omnipresent, originating from both physiological metabolisms and exogenous sources, including pollution, cigarette smoke, radiation, and certain medications. Emphasizing their role in aging, free radicals systematically degrade the collagen framework of our skin, leading to manifestations such as wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and skin laxity. The process of oxidation—akin to a sliced apple turning brown when exposed—reflects a similar deterioration our skin undergoes when continuously besieged by free radicals. Nevertheless, nature offers an antidote. By integrating antioxidants into our diet and skincare regimen, we can substantially offset the damage inflicted by free radicals.


Steering Towards Prevention

The path to a healthier heart and alleviated metabolic syndrome predominantly lies in lifestyle modification. Here's a quintet of actionable strategies:

  • Abstain from smoking.

  • Attain and sustain an optimal weight.

  • Infuse regular physical activity into your routine.

  • Prioritize sleep hygiene.

  • Cultivate a balanced dietary habit. When discussing dietary components, the role of oils, particularly unsaturated fats, cannot be overstated. These "healthy fats" mainly sourced from fatty fish, plant-derived oils, seeds, and nuts are instrumental in preserving cardiovascular integrity.

Sea Buckthorn: The Natural Elixir

Enriched with Saturated Fats that are Omega 3, 6, 7, and 9, vitamins, and potent antioxidants, sea buckthorn boasts a storied history in traditional medicine across Asian countries. From its efficacy in treating diverse ailments to its inclusion in culinary delights, the versatility of this "wonder plant" is truly impressive.



Enter CardiBerry: A Dermatologist's Perspective

In the backdrop of Malaysia's prevalent health challenges, the spotlight has shifted to the multifaceted benefits of sea buckthorn, embodied in CardiBerry. This comprehensive nutritional supplement drink encapsulates a blend of vital nutrients. At its heart, CardiBerry features CardiOmegia, a derivative of 100% Organic Sea Buckthorn, laden with over 190 bioactive compounds, including a spectrum of Omega 3, 6, 7, and 9 fatty acids.



In my own point of view, CardiBerry is not merely a beverage—it's a rejuvenation tonic. It promises enhanced skin hydration, fuelling skin cells with moisture, and fostering collagen synthesis. This translates to improved skin elasticity and a notable reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Beyond aesthetics, its potency in combating free radicals, supporting stem cell regeneration, fortifying the immune system, and potentially mitigating metabolic syndrome elevates CardiBerry to a league of its own. Hypercholesterolemia is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The bioactive substance in the lipids of sea buckthorn pulp, phytosterols, plays an important role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, especially hypercholesterolemia The dual benefits, for skin and internal health, makes CardiBerry a holistic solution for the contemporary challenges we face. By integrating sea buckthorn and, by extension, CardiBerry into our daily routines, we open doors to a healthier, radiant skin, and a more robust cardiovascular system—a perfect symbiosis of external beauty and internal wellness — exactly what Malaysia needs now.


Disclaimer My review is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease without the consultation of a healthcare professional. Please consult with a healthcare professional if you have any medical condition. -Individual results may vary.


Author:

Dr. Erum Siddiqui is a seasoned Dermatologist, trained at the prestigious College of physician and Surgeons in Karachi, Pakistan. With over a decade of experience, she specialises in treating various skin conditions, from acne and eczema to skin pigmentation disorders and skin cancer. Dr. Siddiqui’s commitment to skin health extends to her advocacy for clean, hypoallergenic skincare products that leverage both natural and synthetically derived ingredients. Her research contributions to multiple medical journals cover critical investigations into conditions like androgenic alopecia, female pattern hair loss, and insulin resistance in acne patients. Beyond her clinical practice, she tests and recommends an array of skincare and beauty products, providing expert advice drawn from her professional experience. As a dedicated member of the Pakistan Dermatology Association, she stays current with the latest advancements in dermatology, continually aiming to provide her patients with effective treatments and beneficial product recommendations.


References: https://www.e-mjm.org/2016/v71s1/metabolic-syndrome-research.pdf https://www.hindawi.com/journals/jdr/2012/271028/? utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=HDW_MRKT_GBL_SUB_ADWO_PAI_DY NA_JOUR_X_PJ_GROUP3&gclid=CjwKCAjwloynBhBbEiwAGY25dDulcduDfe- Yiu6W4qmj1WCJi67CheCrpF1ANI8SnbzsZtlmbrM5QhoC9E0QAvD_BwE https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9763470/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3431746/

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