The “10th Walk, Run, Cycle to Prevent Paralysis” is a nationwide project happening in 77 provinces which simultaneously honours His Majesty the King on the auspicious occasion of His Majesty’s 6th cycle birthday anniversary on July 28, 2024.
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat launched proceedings at 6am this morning at Saphan Hin Park by paying tribute to His Majesty the King is a special ceremony before the run itself started shortly afterwards.
Governor Sophon was joined by Sutthiphon Chayanatphong, Director of Phuket Provincial Public Health, in addition to selected heads of government agencies and members of the public.
As part of his opening remarks Dr Sutthiphon explained that cerebrovascular disease is a global health hazard which sees approximately 2% of the Thai population affected by strokes each year (approximately 1,880 per 100,000).
He further explained that strokes are the number one cause of death in women and the third leading cause in men, after general accidents and cancer.
Furthermore, the impact of a stroke on disability rates is especially high, causing not only physical challenges but memory loss and mental challenges later in life.
Worryingly, Phuket is witnessing an increase in the number of stroke victims each year, Dr Sutthiphon said, with stress from exposure to noise, smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, lack of exercise and specific underlying diseases being the main contributing factors. There is no doubt that strokes are detrimentally impacting society, the quality of life and the overall population, he added.
The project is organised integrated in collaboration with five national ministries: the Ministry of Interior; the Ministry of Public Health; the Ministry of Tourism and Sports; the Ministry of Education; and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, as well as a number of partner networks.
The run strives to raise awareness as to the general dangers of a stroke while promoting the benefits of a heatly lifestyle in people of all ages, in which exercise plays a key role.
As part of his speech during the opening ceremony, Governor Sophon praised His Majesty the King by stating how much he and all Thai citizens admire his great virtue and are grateful for His Majesty’s kindness and grace towards all.
Governor Sophon further praised how His Majesty the King regularly performed “various royal duties to benefit the people of the country by providing assistance to the poor people to be able to rely on themselves in various aspects with stability and sustainability.”
His Majesty is like the light in the heart of all Thai people, Governor Sophon said, who has always been a role model in terms of health care and exercise, which is the core focus of today’s event.