The Makati City local government distributed 969 hypertension and 1,006 diabetes health kits to Makatizens as part of the city's expanded health management services.
Mayor Abby Binay said on Monday, October 7, that the initiative is a significant part of the city's comprehensive health strategy aimed at combating lifestyle diseases and enhancing the quality of life of its residents.
"By providing these monitoring kits, we are not just equipping our citizens with tools; we are empowering them to take control of their health before they face critical health issues," Binay said.
She explained that based on the data from the city’s free medicine program, maintenance medicine for hypertension and diabetes top the list of medications dispensed to Yellow Card holders and dependents, adding that regular monitoring can significantly reduce the risks of complications such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Each hypertension kit includes an adult aneroid sphygmomanometer with a stethoscope, an NCD booklet with a monitoring diary, dietary guidelines, and an exercise plan, an embossed emergency contact tag designed as a bracelet, and a transparent storage bag.
Meanwhile, the diabetes kit contains a glucometer with 25 strips and lancets, a pack of 15 cotton balls, an embossed emergency contact tag bracelet, an NCD booklet tailored for diabetes management, a transparent bag for organized storage, and a sharps collector for safe disposal.
The city also conducts regular health education sessions, community support, and direct access to specialized medical advice and periodic screenings.
"These benefits are designed to foster a proactive approach to health management, encouraging residents to maintain their health and prevent disease progression," the local chief executive explained.