Health Minister calls yoga key weapon against chronic illness

Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony on Sunday urged citizens to embrace yoga as a daily practice to combat chronic illnesses and improve overall well-being.

Anthony made the appeal at a yoga event at the Sophia Exhibition Complex hosted by the High Commission of India and the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in observance of International Day of Yoga 2026.
Speaking under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” the minister said science has shown that regular practice can help prevent and control non-communicable diseases.

“The science has shown that those who regularly practice (yoga), that many of the chronic non-communicable diseases that affect us…we can prevent them, or if you have them, we can be able to control them,” Anthony said.
Acting High Commissioner of India to Guyana Manoj Kumar said yoga is a gift to the world and a contribution toward healthier, longer lives.
“As people across the world aspire to live longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives, ensuring more healthy and dignified ageing has become a shared global priority. The growing burden of lifestyle-related ailments further underscores the importance of preventative health care and holistic living,” Kumar said.

Several yoga sessions are scheduled to take place around the country in the coming days, the acting High Commissioner added.