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Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Donald Tsang, at the Opening Ceremony of the Tenth Annual Scientific Congress of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology held today (June 22):
Dr Chiang, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Good afternoon to you all.
It is my pleasure to be here today to join you at the Scientific Congress of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology.
To begin, I would like to share with you a verse from the Bible [Proverbs 4:23] -
"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life."
Statistics show that literally we are not guarding our hearts well and fewer men have 'good hearts'. In Hong Kong, as with other parts of the world, heart diseases have been the leading cause of death for many decades. In 2000, heart diseases claimed over 5500 lives, accounting for one out of 6 deaths in Hong Kong. Almost 40% of all general medical admissions in our public hospitals involve cardiovascular diseases. Growing affluence of the community in the past decades, with related risk factors including unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use etc., has all contributed to this phenomenon. And I am especially concerned to note that patients are now getting heart problems at a much younger age.
The battle against heart diseases requires the concerted efforts of all quarters. Over the years, the Government has spared no effort in promoting a healthy lifestyle in the community. We have been advocating for a balanced diet, regular exercising, no smoking and moderate alcohol consumption, through organizing various preventive programmes and health education activities. For the unfortunate ones who require medical treatment, our hospitals are equipped with the latest technologies and highly trained and experienced medical personnel to provide the necessary services.
Medical experts around the world have been conducting research in the quest for breakthroughs in the treatment of heart diseases. This Congress provides an excellent opportunity for experts in cardiology to share their research findings. Such experience sharing would surely advance the treatment methods for this serious disease.
I would like to congratulate the Hong Kong College of Cardiology-for the 10th year running-for organizing this important Congress. This annual congress, in particular, has brought together prominent local and overseas specialists to exchange professional knowledge and experience in cardiovascular medicine. I am confident that you all, ladies and gentlemen with good hearts, will have a most successful and fruitful Congress. And I wish our overseas guests an enjoyable stay in Hong Kong.
Thank you very much.
End/Saturday, June 22, 2002
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