Dr. Antonio Cruz Jiminián, a philanthropist and Dominican health expert, spoke about cancer, smoking, and obesity during the general assembly of the Multi-Enterprise Action Society (SAM) in Santo Domingo. In his masterful conference, he identified these as the main causes of death worldwide and in the Dominican Republic, urging immediate preventive actions.
Alarming statistics on cancer, smoking, and obesity
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer causes 10 million deaths annually, smoking 8 million, and obesity contributes to 4 million, figures that Jiminián reinforced with local emphasis. In the country, smoking kills over 10,000 people a year, while obesity affects 60% of adults, increasing cardiovascular risks and diabetes.
Global and local context of cancer, smoking, and obesity
Dr. Jiminián linked cancer, smoking, and obesity to environmental exposure, such as pollutants and processed food habits. Historically, smoking has been fought since the 60s with global campaigns, but persists as an epidemic. In the Dominican Republic, government programs aim to reduce smoking by 30% by 2030, although childhood obesity grows 15% annually.
Expert recommendations against cancer, smoking, and obesity
- Quit smoking: reduces lung cancer risk by 50% in 10 years.
- Balanced diets: lower obesity and prevent colorectal cancer.
- Physical activity: 150 minutes weekly combat both factors.
Experts like the Dominican Society of Oncology support these measures, highlighting early cancer checks. Jiminián called on companies like SAM to promote healthy environments.
The conference highlights that cancer, smoking, and obesity not only kill but also overload healthcare systems. In the Dominican Republic, where these causes represent 40% of deaths, prevention is key. Dr. Jiminián insists on education and public policies to reverse this trend, remembering that simple changes save lives.
