The recent PeKa B40 report released by ProtectHealth has revealed a stark connection between income levels and health among Malaysians, showing that 70% of B40 individuals who underwent health screenings in the past year were diagnosed with at least one non-communicable disease (NCD). The findings underscore how financial pressures and environmental factors directly impact personal health, creating long-term consequences for both individuals and the national economy.

How Financial Strain Contributes To Poor Health

According to public health consultant Dr Feisul Idzwan Mustapha, several interconnected factors contribute to this health crisis. A primary concern is the availability and affordability of fresh food in low-income neighbourhoods, which are often dominated by cheap, ultra-processed food options. In contrast, healthier foods like fresh fruits and vegetables are frequently more expensive and less accessible.

Structural challenges also play an important role. Many individuals in the B40 community work long hours, often in shifts, suffer from crowded living conditions, and inadequate transportation. These daily realities leave little time, energy, or resources for preparing nutritious meals or engaging in regular physical activity. The constant mental burden of financial stress can cause biological strain on the body, increasing the long-term risk of developing chronic diseases.

The RM64 Billion Cost To The Malaysian Economy

The high incidence of NCDs in the B40 community has significant economic repercussions for the nation. Health experts observe serious health events like strokes, heart attacks, and kidney failure occurring in younger individuals, often during their most productive working years.

Economically, this health burden is estimated to cost Malaysia over RM64 billion annually in lost productivity and direct healthcare expenses. Dr Feisul emphasised that investing in prevention and early detection is far more cost-effective than managing the high costs of long-term medications, hospitalisations, and treatments such as dialysis.

A Coordinated Plan For A Healthier Malaysia

Addressing such complex issues requires more than public health campaigns. Dr Feisul emphasised the need for coordinated action across multiple sectors. One proposed step is to make healthy choices the easier, more accessible option by setting higher nutrition standards in schools and workplaces, and by reducing the marketing of unhealthy foods to children.

Financial policies can also help protect B40 households. This could involve strengthening the existing tax on sugar-sweetened beverages and exploring subsidies for healthier staple foods like vegetables and whole grains. It is also vital to strengthen primary care services, using programmes like PeKa B40 to encourage regular health screenings and follow-up care for early intervention. Finally, designing cities with safer walking paths, cycling routes, and better public transport can encourage daily physical activity.

Shared Responsibility For A Healthier Future

While systemic changes are needed, personal responsibility remains a key component of improving public health. The Ministry of Health’s campaign, ‘Sihat Itu Saya’ (‘Health starts with me’), serves as a reminder that individuals play an active role in their own well-being.

At RinggitPlus, we recognise that financial health and physical health are deeply intertwined. As we continue our mission to empower all Malaysians with financial knowledge, we understand the importance of addressing these fundamental challenges. Our upcoming RinggitPlus Malaysian Financial Literacy Survey (RMFLS) will delve into the B40 community’s perspectives on healthcare affordability, providing insights to help build a healthier and more financially secure nation for everyone.

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• TAGS:
• B40
• Healthcare
• PeKa B40