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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider Have diabetes? Watch your cholesterol level

Have diabetes? Watch your cholesterol level

Published Feb 19, 2022 05:20 pm

It's the fourth leading cause of death, PSA reports

Unhealthy diet has resulted to a lot of health-related risks, including diabetes and high cholesterol levels. In our country, diabetes is the fourth leading cause of death. This is according to the 2020 census by the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Now what most people don't realize is that diabetes and cholesterol are interrelated, meaning those with diabetes are prone to also have cardiovascular diseases. These fatty deposits in the arteries can cause stroke and heart attack, leading to 50 percent of deaths in those who are diabetic.

Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

Viatris, a healthcare company, is working on a mission to help diabetics in managing their cholesterol. This will help reduce deaths. "With its BE THERE campaign, Viatris are encouraging patients with diabetes to manage their cholesterol levels to reduce the risk of untimely death so they can “be there” to enjoy their family’s important milestones. “At Viatris, we empower people to live healthier at every stage of life. We want to raise awareness on the complications of diabetes and help patients avoid the life-threatening risks associated with it—that they can and should be able to enjoy their lives to the fullest despite their illness," explains Viatris Philippines Medical Lead Dr. Jermaine Lim.

The campaign is about working with healthcare professionals on educating people on cardiovascular risk reduction, teaching patients on managing cholesterol levels and care for diabetes. Lifestyle changes are a must, such as exercising, eating healthier, and taking proper medication.

“Cholesterol medication can greatly reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke, making them an important part of diabetes care," explains Dr. Bien Matawaran, past president of the Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism and current chief of the Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism of the UST Hospital. “We must encourage patients to consult their doctors and have that thorough discussion regarding their case of diabetes. By doing so, patients with diabetes are prescribed anti-cholesterol medication that can provide the desired bad cholesterol reduction and are given the timely support and care that they need,” he adds.

Guest Speaker Dr. Bien Matawaran joins host Hedi Demaisip, Viatris Medical Lead Dr. Jermaine Lim and
Viatris Philippines Country Manager Ester Tacanay for a virtual press conference on cholesterol
management in diabetes.

Dr. Matawaran also explained that single medications can work, but some would need a combination of medicines, "One form of medication are statins. Statins work by blocking a substance in the liver needed to make cholesterol thereby lowering bad cholesterol, increasing good cholesterol and lowering blood fats or triglycerides.” And like any prescribed medicines, it is best to consult with doctors before pushing through.

“It has never been timelier to have a conversation with your doctor about cholesterol management. So don’t hesitate to seek medical help so that you can continue to BE THERE with your family for the sweeter things in life,” reminds Dr. Lim.

Related Tags

diabetes viatris cholesterol death
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