The Department of Health (DOH) said that cardiovascular diseases remain the top causes of illness, disability, and even death in the Philippines.
Ischemic heart disease, hypertensive disease, and stroke are among the most common cardiovascular ailments affecting Filipinos.
In response to this alarming trend, the DOH launched a campaign with the theme "Puso ang Piliin ngayong Heart Month (Choose Heart this Heart Month)!"
“Pay attention to our doctor and take care of our heart health for a better quality of life free from heart problems and the worry of developing cardiovascular diseases,” said Dr. Albert Domingo, DOH Officer-in-Charge Assistant Secretary and Deputy Spokesperson, on Wednesday, Feb. 7.
He stressed that the celebration aims to rally public support for promoting cardiovascular health and wellness, especially in light of the increasing number of people affected by heart disease in the country.
“Beyond Heart Month, let’s remember to love our hearts everyday!” he added.
Meanwhile, reports from the 2022 Family Health Survey Information System (FHSIS) revealed that over 155,000 Filipinos are currently living with cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, Domingo noted that based on the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), ischemic heart disease is still listed as the top cause of death in 2021 and 2022, with hypertensive diseases ranked 6th in 2021 and 5th in 2022, and “other heart diseases” listed 11th in 2021 and 8th in 2022.
On the top ten list of illnesses or morbidities, hypertension is still listed as the 2nd leading cause, with a rate of 410 for every 100,000 population, as reported in the 2020 Philippine Health Statistics.
He highlighted that major risk factors for heart disease and stroke encompass tobacco and alcohol use, an unhealthy diet, and physical inactivity, which elevate blood pressure, lipids, glucose, and obesity, all strongly associated with cardiovascular ailments.
Prevention and control
To prevent this, Domingo outlined key recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO) for controlling and preventing heart disease at the individual level, stressing the importance of proactive health management.
This includes avoiding the use of tobacco, reducing salt consumption, increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding the harmful use of alcohol.
“If you have symptoms of heart problems such as chest pains, shortness of breath, swelling in the feet, ankles, or knees, fatigue, or palpitation, visit your nearest health center and consult your physician or health worker,” Domingo highlighted.
For those diagnosed with heart disease, he advised against risky behaviors like smoking, excessive alcohol intake, poor dietary choices, and sedentary lifestyles, while advocating for healthy habits such as dietary improvements and regular exercise.
He also stressed the importance of adhering to prescribed medications under the guidance of a physician for maintaining optimal heart health.
Furthermore, to promote physical activity and heart health, the DOH announced the upcoming “KonsulTayo Ribbon Run” on Feb. 18 at the UP Oval.
Domingo encouraged participation in the event as a means to improve heart health and overall well-being.