Data from the Philippine Statistics Office show that ischemic heart disease was the top cause of death in the Philippines in 2020 and 2021. The numbers increased from over 95,000 in 2020 to almost 126,000 in 2021. Meanwhile, fatalities from diabetes mellitus marked a 22 percent increase to 44,000 in 2021.
Concerned by the rising number, doctors are calling for people to take stock of their health, especially with the lifestyle changes resulting from the quarantine lockdown and the emergence of the new normal of living. For this year’s “For Your Sweetheart Philippines” campaign by Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines, it has brought together several medical experts to talk about the rise in number of cases as well as how to keep oneself healthy in the new normal.
Philippine Heart Association (PHA) secretary, Dr. Rodney Jimenez said that the lockdown and strict quarantine restrictions have resulted in a more sedentary lifestyle for many Filipinos, increasing their risk of these 2 diseases.
“Pandemic lockdowns and quarantines have seriously impacted the health of many Filipinos by limiting their movement and keeping them from engaging in physical activity,” noted Philippine Heart Association (PHA) secretary, Dr. Rodney Jimenez. “And this was exacerbated by heightened anxiety, as well as the availability of streaming services and social media.”
Hypertension and diabetes, however, are preventable and there are tools online that help people take stock of their heart health. One such tool is the Framingham Assessment Test.
It is a web-based written exam that computes the risk for developing cardiovascular disease based on a series of information including cholesterol levels and blood pressure. It can be accessed at www.foryoursweetheart.ph.
“Accessible online tools like the Framingham Assessment Test help provide a picture of one’s health prior to consulting a doctor,” said Ms. Leyden Florido, President of Philippine Association of Diabetes Educators. “Results can be brought to a doctor for proper interpretation and necessary action.”
Panelists also recommended that people go to their doctors for regular checkups now that restrictions are lifted.
“A lot of Filipinos living with diabetes don’t realize that if they don’t learn to manage their condition properly, it can lead to heart disease,” said Dr. Pasaporte, president of Diabetes Philippines. “This is especially true for people who have vices, are hypertensive and unmindful of their diet, and lead a sedentary lifestyle.”
“We’re in the new normal now. While online consultation remains a good option to get medical attention, the best way to know how to keep your diabetes in control and from developing heart disease is still to see your doctor regularly,” Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM) President, Dr. Carolyn Narvacan-Montano added.
