Silent Killers: How to Protect Your Heart and Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) account for over 30% of deaths in the Philippines in 2021. These diseases, including heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes, are often referred to as “silent killers” because they can cause death without causing any noticeable symptoms. Many individuals are unaware that they have CVDs and do not know how to protect themselves against them. Therefore, taking steps to prevent these diseases is more important than ever, and the first step in doing so is to understand how to care for our heart health.

RHEA Generics, one of the Philippines’ most trusted names in generic medicine, suggests several lifestyle changes that can improve heart health. First, it is crucial to stay away from tobacco. Chemicals in cigarette smoke can cause blood vessel cells to inflame and narrow, resulting in a variety of cardiovascular diseases. Even if you do not smoke, exposure to secondhand smoke can be harmful. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of heart disease by half after one year and is the same as that of a non-smoker after fifteen years.

Alcohol consumption has been associated with more than 200 diseases and injury conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, according to the WHO. Binge drinking is common in the Philippines, and there is no safe level of alcohol consumption, making it preferable to avoid alcohol altogether to protect your heart.

Overweight individuals, especially those with excess weight around their midsection, are at increased risk of heart disease, according to the National Nutrition Council (NNC). RHEA Generics suggests stress reduction, healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight management to reduce the risk of heart disease.

Physical activity can benefit heart health by improving cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and weight management. Adults are advised to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical exercise each week, such as brisk walking, stair climbing, dancing, gardening, or household chores that cause a mild increase in heart rate.

Regular health screenings for blood pressure and blood sugar levels are essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Some individuals may not experience symptoms, even if they already have high blood pressure. Discussing any behavioral concerns with a healthcare provider, such as an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, or alcohol or tobacco use, can help plan the necessary lifestyle changes to improve heart health.

A balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean proteins while limiting saturated and trans fats, added sweets, and sodium can help reduce the risk of developing heart disease. RHEA Generics recommends avoiding processed, canned, and fast food and replacing sweetened snacks and drinks with fresh fruits, vegetables, and water.

However, access to affordable, safe, and nutritious food and basic healthcare services remains a challenge for many Filipinos. According to a Ulat ng Bayan report released by the DOH, 99% of Filipinos are unable to purchase prescription medications due to their high cost. To address this issue, RHEA Generics remains accessible and affordable while maintaining world-class quality and safe health products. They have partnered with international pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer and Sanofi to ensure that Filipinos have access to medicines for hypertension, heart attack, and stroke prevention.