X Exhibition-Fair "Vitebsk Region for a Healthy Lifestyle": Health in Interactive Format and Secrets of Longevity
50 enterprises, organizations, and institutions of the region took part in the X specialized exhibition-fair "Vitebsk Region for a Healthy Lifestyle", which turned the "Vitebsk" Concert Hall into a real treasure trove of health for two days, May 18-19.
Every year, the organizers, namely the Regional Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology, and Public Health, the Vitebsk Branch of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Regional Executive Committee, strive to introduce novelty into the traditional event, already well-known to the public. And the anniversary exhibition-fair is no exception. This year, it was actively supported by organizations and institutions involved in sports and physical culture. Paralympians were invited for the first time; they led the procession of sports institutions and creative groups during the grand opening of the exhibition. These people, the organizers are confident, deserve the deepest respect. Despite their ailments, they lead an active lifestyle, engage in sports, and achieve success. Here, one involuntarily reflects on how much one values their own health.
Considering that a good fair is not only a presentation of goods and services but also a celebration for guests and participants, the organizers tried to make the event spectacular and dynamic. This year, for instance, there was a significant increase in interactive platforms – for American football, Wushu, fitness, healthy cooking, folk crafts, and much more. The outdoor area featured laser tag games, basketball, and a parkour zone.
– This year, we wanted to involve as many children as possible. We understand that the focus in shaping a healthy lifestyle should be on the younger generation. It is easier and more effective to form the right stereotype and rejection of bad habits at an early age. Physical activity is the key to health, especially today, when the world is so computerized, – noted **Chief Sanitary Doctor of the region Vladimir Sinkevich**.
Fortunately, sociological research and public surveys show that the number of people who consider health the main value of their lives is increasing, and they realize that maintaining and strengthening it depends more on themselves, on a healthy lifestyle and a health-saving environment. And considerable efforts are being made in our region for this.
– The state and the regional executive committee pay great attention to a healthy lifestyle. Today, more than 4,000 sports facilities have been built in the Vitebsk region. At the same time, no matter how much we talk about a healthy lifestyle, it is only half the success. The most important thing is that every person takes care of their health. If people are healthy, the nation will have a future, – summarized **Deputy Chairman of the Regional Executive Committee Vladimir Penin** during the grand opening of the exhibition-fair.
Another integral component of good physical shape, which depends on personal choice, is proper nutrition. The exhibition-fair is also designed to help navigate the wide range of products presented today in any store.
As reported by Natalia Vorobyova, General Director of the Vitebsk Branch of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, "Vitebsk Region for a Healthy Lifestyle" annually brings together about 20 industrial enterprises of the region. Although their representation remains largely consistent, there is always room for new discoveries. Domestic manufacturers strive to introduce the public to new products that can improve health and maintain good physical shape. For example, Orsha Meat Canning Plant presented its "Olimpiec" series, "Vitba" factory introduced new types of flakes, and "Vitebskhlebprom" showcased new bread products. Postavy Dairy Plant modified its fat content range, launching lower-fat milk, kefir, and sour cream for dietary followers, which only appeared on the region's store shelves last month.
While young people were primarily seen at interactive sports grounds, representatives of the older generation showed greater interest in the presentation booths of the region's leading healthcare institutions. Visitors to the exhibition were offered a unique opportunity to receive individual consultations from virtually any specialist, including cardiologists, endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, dentists, psychotherapists, dermatovenerologists, and obstetrician-gynecologists, among others. It was even possible to undergo minimal examinations, such as measuring blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and performing dermoscopy. Furthermore, medical professionals prepared lectures and seminars for the public, explaining the fundamental principles of health and longevity in an accessible manner.
– This exhibition is aimed at helping people develop a set of measures that will allow them to live a long and active life, – said **Yuri Derkach, Head of the Healthcare Department of the Regional Executive Committee**. – Good conditions have been created in the Vitebsk region for people to maintain their health. Physical culture and sports facilities have been introduced, healthcare institutions have been updated, and preventive work is being strengthened. Good indicators of the health status of our population are an objective factor that allows us to assess the efforts of all services and organizations, including those present at the exhibition-fair. Infant mortality does not exceed 2.5 – 2.6 ppm, which is significantly lower than the national level. Mortality in the working-age population has decreased by almost 2 times – this is a very good indicator. Mortality among the elderly is also decreasing.
The statistics provided by Yuri Nikolaevich, as well as the interest of residents and guests of Vitebsk in the health forum, best indicate that Belarusians today are ready to change their approach to their health and longevity, are beginning to be interested in proper nutrition, an active lifestyle, and are more often listening to the advice of doctors.
Natalya Ryzhkova. Photos by Dmitry OSIPOV. "Vitebskiye vesti".