Chronic diseases account for roughly 88% of all deaths in China, but changing the unhealthy habits linked to them remains a major challenge, said Dr. Shao Ruitai, a professor at the School of Population Medicine and Public Health at Peking Union Medical College.

Healthy habits, including a healthy diet, going to bed early and reducing or avoiding smoking, are key to preventing chronic diseases, Shao said in an interview with CGTN's Health Talk on the sidelines of the Boao Forum for Asia Global Health Forum.

Shao called for greater efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and public health knowledge. He also highlighted the potential of AI and wearable devices in disease prevention, early detection and management, while stressing that the use of personal and health data should be based on informed consent and follow proper procedures to protect privacy.

The Boao Forum for Asia Global Health Forum 2026 was held in Haikou from September 15 to 16, with guests from 32 countries and regions attending the event.

Supervisor: Zhang Jingwen

Producer: Yang Sha

Director: Chen Hongyu

Videographer: Zheng Hao

Copy editors: Nadim Diab, Shanaaz Prince, Du Junzhi

Cover: Yin Yating