Experts release latest tips for healthy lifestyle

Health experts released the latest tips for a healthy lifestyle on Tuesday, as part of efforts to motivate the public to integrate them into their daily lives.

The 43 pieces of advice target six groups — pregnant women, breast-feeding mothers, infants, children and teenagers, workers, and the elderly, according to the Office for the China Healthy Lifestyle for All.

The annual campaign was launched in 2007 by China's top health authority and disease control body, with the aim of promoting healthy lifestyles among the public.

This year's suggestions include seniors being encouraged to reduce bone loss and increase muscle density and strength. Children and teenagers are advised to master at least one sports skill and reduce use of electronic devices and earphones.

Professional workers should pay special attention to discomfort in their cervical, lumbar spine and joints.

Lai Jianqiang, head of the China CDC's Office of Chronic Disease and Ageing Health Management, said that since the campaign was launched basic healthy habits, such as exercising regularly and reducing the intake of sugar, salt and fat, have been adopted by an increasing number of people.

More than 97 percent of districts and counties nationwide have been involved in the campaign, and over 900,000 volunteers have been recruited and trained to educate the public on healthy lifestyles, he said during a news conference on Tuesday.

Li Changning, head of the China Health Education Center, said that the health literacy rate of Chinese people has been climbing steadily in recent years, reaching almost 28 percent in 2022.

However, he said regional gaps in health literacy remain and more efforts are needed to guide the public to not only learn about healthy lifestyles, but also practice them on a daily basis.