“Health is wealth,” an old saying goes, and at least 71 percent of Filipinos think so too, according to the latest survey of OCTA Research. Specifically, the 71 percent said they “want to stay healthy and avoid illnesses.”

This is based on the first quarter of 2024 “Tugon ng Masa” survey results on urgent personal concerns of Filipinos, a non-commissioned survey which was conducted from March 11 to 14.  It was participated in by 1,200 respondents nationwide.

Other significant results showed that 57 percent want to “at least to be able to have enough to eat every day,” while 44 percent, hope “to finish schooling or to be able to provide schooling for our children.” The survey showed that there was less concern for “having savings,” (32 percent), and “owning a house and lot,” (23 percent).

What stands out is that the priority of most Filipinos in all social classes and regions is health.  Viewed as a blessing, good genes, or the result of a lifestyle, health is truly wealth as it is a major factor in attaining the other elements for a good life, like an education, a job, savings, and a house.

The pandemic has taught us that health is truly wealth.  A sniffle leads to a cold when ignored, and when accompanied by less sleep and inadequate nutrition, it leads to illness.   And today, there is no dismissing a common cold as it may be a symptom of a more serious illness.

Health professionals advocate a wholistic way to attain good health as the result of taking care of one’s physical and mental health. 

The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention defines mental health as that which includes one’s “emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.”

“Mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health.  For example, depression increases the risk for many types of physical health problems, particularly long-lasting conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Similarly, the presence of chronic conditions can increase the risk for mental illness.”

The World Health Organization (WHO) in its list of 10 healthy choices to make in 2024 cited loneliness as a serious health risk.  “A large body of research shows that social isolation and loneliness have a serious impact on physical and mental health, quality of life and longevity.” So, go out and connect with people!

Attention – and time – should be given to physical health.  That starts with good nutrition, being active (exercise), having enough sleep, and getting regular check-ups.

The WHO list of healthy choices advises that the regular visits can “help monitor your blood pressure to control and prevent hypertension, the number one silent killer in the world. Without proper treatment, uncontrolled hypertension can lead to severe health complications later in life.”

Physical activity or being active has many significant health benefits, among them, it “contributes to preventing and managing noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes; reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety; enhances thinking, learning, and judgment skills; and improves overall well-being,” according to WHO.

If you believe that health is wealth, it is time to get active, have enough time for sleep, pay attention to your nutrition, have a medical check-up; and to make time to take care of your mental health.