September 16, 2025
An increasing number of patients come to me with chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or obesity. These are no longer illnesses confined to old age—they are striking at younger and younger populations. The root causes often lie in diets high in sugar and fat, coupled with sedentary lifestyles and long-term stress.
What concerns me most is that many people only begin to care about their health once their bodies raise the alarm through illness. If prevention were taken more seriously, much of society’s burden could be lifted.
As a pharmacist, I often witness people purchasing medication on their own, or following advice passed along by word of mouth, without fully understanding potential side effects or drug interactions. Meanwhile, the market is flooded with dietary supplements and health products, promoted with persuasive advertising that easily misleads consumers.
My consistent recommendation is simple: always consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication or product. Your safety should never be compromised by flashy marketing claims.
Despite these challenges, I see encouraging signs. Preventive care and holistic wellness are gaining greater attention. More people are undergoing regular check-ups, paying closer attention to nutrition, and addressing mental health.
At the same time, modern healthcare technology is reshaping the way people access care—from telehealth consultations and electronic medical records to the growing role of artificial intelligence in diagnosis and treatment. These innovations are making healthcare more accessible while improving the quality of services delivered.
As a physician and consulting pharmacist, I believe that community health is built on small, everyday choices: eating mindfully, exercising regularly, managing stress, and, most importantly, not underestimating the power of prevention.
Doctors and medicines can support you, but the strongest foundation for health will always be a balanced lifestyle and informed decisions.
My hope is that each of us becomes a true “gatekeeper” of our own health—and in doing so, we contribute to building a stronger, healthier, and more sustainable society.
September 27, 2025