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Heart Disease

Reviewed by  Maria Maureen Ablen, MD
Written by  Maria Maureen Ablen, MD
Published 05/01/2025

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the Philippines, accounting for a significant portion of mortality rates nationwide. Despite advancements in medical science, many Filipinos remain unaware of the risk factors, symptoms, and preventive measures associated with cardiovascular diseases. Understanding heart disease and taking preventive actions early can make all the difference in living a longer, healthier life.

1. What is Heart Disease? 2. Why Heart Disease is a Major Concern in the Philippines 3. Risk Factors for Heart Disease 4. Symptoms to Watch Out For 5. How to Prevent Heart Disease 6. Treatment Options for Heart Disease in the Philippines 7. Living with Heart Disease

What is Heart Disease?

Heart disease, or cardiovascular disease (CVD), is a broad term that covers a range of conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels. The most common form is coronary artery disease, where plaque builds up in the arteries, narrowing them and reducing blood flow to the heart. This can eventually lead to heart attacks, angina (chest pain), and other serious complications.

Other types of heart disease include:

  • Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms

  • Heart valve problems: Issues with one or more of the heart's four valves

  • Heart failure: When the heart can't pump blood effectively

  • Congenital heart defects: Heart structure issues present at birth

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, ischemic heart diseases accounted for 17.9% of total deaths in the Philippines in 2020, highlighting how critical it is for Filipinos to prioritize cardiovascular health.

Why Heart Disease is a Major Concern in the Philippines

Urbanization, lifestyle changes, and lack of access to consistent healthcare contribute to the rising rates of heart disease. High rates of smoking, poor diet, sedentary habits, and increasing obesity and diabetes cases make Filipinos especially vulnerable.

Socioeconomic factors also play a role. Many Filipinos are unable to afford regular health check-ups or necessary treatments, leading to late diagnosis and poorer outcomes.

Raising awareness and promoting preventive measures are essential to turn the tide against heart disease in the Philippines.

Risk Factors for Heart Disease

Several factors increase the risk of developing heart disease. Some you can control; others, like genetics, you can't. Key risk factors include:

  • Unhealthy Diet: High intake of saturated fats, trans fats, salt, and sugar.

  • Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular exercise increases the risk of high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes.

  • Smoking: One of the leading preventable causes of cardiovascular diseases.

  • Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Raises blood pressure and can lead to heart failure.

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Damages artery walls, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup.

  • High Cholesterol: Excessive LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels contribute to plaque formation.

  • Diabetes: High blood sugar damages blood vessels and increases heart disease risk.

  • Family History: A history of heart disease in your family increases your risk.

  • Stress: Chronic stress may damage arteries and worsen other risk factors.

Managing these risk factors through lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your chances of developing heart disease.

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Heart disease symptoms can vary depending on the specific condition but commonly include:

  • Chest Pain or Discomfort: Often described as pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of the chest.

  • Shortness of Breath: May occur with or without chest discomfort.

  • Pain in Other Areas: Pain or discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach.

  • Numbness or Weakness: Especially in the arms or legs, indicating blocked arteries.

  • Extreme Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired even after minimal exertion.

  • Swelling: In the legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen, which can signal heart failure.

  • Rapid or Irregular Heartbeats: May feel like a racing, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical help immediately.

How to Prevent Heart Disease

Preventing heart disease requires commitment to a healthier lifestyle. Here are evidence-based strategies:

  • Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats (like those from olive oil and fish). Reduce salt, sugar, and processed foods.

  • Stay Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week. Walking, cycling, and swimming are excellent options.

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even a small weight loss (5-10% of body weight) can significantly reduce heart disease risk.

  • Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or hobbies that relax you.

  • Quit Smoking: Seek help through cessation programs or support groups.

  • Limit Alcohol: Drink in moderation, if at all.

  • Get Regular Screenings: Monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels regularly.

The World Health Organization highlights that controlling these risk factors can prevent most cases of cardiovascular disease.

If you're looking for more tailored advice on making sustainable health changes, platforms like andyou.ph provide science-backed resources focused on nutrition and lifestyle for Filipinos.

Treatment Options for Heart Disease in the Philippines

Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of heart disease. Options include:

Lifestyle Modifications:

  • First-line treatment for many conditions; essential even if other treatments are used.

Medications:

  • Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, statins, and antiplatelet agents are common.

Medical Procedures and Surgeries:

  • Angioplasty and stenting

  • Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG)

  • Heart valve repair or replacement

  • Pacemaker or defibrillator implantation for arrhythmias

Cardiac Rehabilitation:

  • Structured programs that combine exercise, education, and counseling to improve heart health after major events like a heart attack.

Access to specialized care is available in many major hospitals in the Philippines, such as the Philippine Heart Center and St. Luke's Medical Center. Government health programs like PhilHealth can help cover some of the costs for eligible patients.

Living with Heart Disease

A heart disease diagnosis is life-changing, but it doesn't have to limit your quality of life. Managing the condition with the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and regular medical follow-up can lead to a fulfilling and active life.

Support groups and community programs can also provide encouragement and education for those living with heart disease. Talking to others facing similar challenges can be incredibly empowering.

Heart disease is a serious health issue in the Philippines, but it is largely preventable and treatable. Early detection, healthy lifestyle choices, and appropriate medical care are key to reducing your risk and improving your overall health.

Taking charge of your heart health today can make a world of difference tomorrow. Stay informed, stay active, and prioritize your well-being.