As the world continues to battle against the coronavirus pandemic, the Department of Health (DOH) warns Filipinos that people with high blood pressure are at an increased risk for more severe complications of COVID-19.
In the latest data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Philippines ranked 44th with the highest number of hypertension deaths in the world. Statistics from the same studies also reveal that 1 out of 4 Filipinos are hypertensive and are more susceptible to stroke and other critical heart diseases.
Hypertension is delineated by WHO as an arterial disease accompanied by high blood pressure which can lead to dangerous health complications such as the heightened risk for cardiovascular and kidney diseases. DOH also revealed that hypertension is more prevalent among Filipino adults aged 20 years and older and remains among the identified precipitating causes of mortality in the country.
Recent information from the coronavirus outbreaks suggests that hypertensive people are more likely to develop severe complications should they contract COVID-19. Experts reveal that a systemic reaction will be caused by the virus in the body, allowing it to attack multiple organ systems especially those with impaired heart health.
The month of May is marked by DOH as the Hypertension Awareness Month, by virtue of Proclamation No. 1761 signed on May 1, 2009. This observance aims to increase the cognizance of Filipinos on the risks, signs, and symptoms of hypertension.
Meanwhile, the National Nutrition Council (NNC) strengthens its efforts in delivering information to the public on the risks and management of hypertension especially amid the pandemic. As hypertension is caused by a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet, NNC campaigns for a healthy diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes to effectively manage high blood pressure.
NNC encourages everyone to follow the 10 Kumainments which are simple and easy-to-remember nutritional guidelines that aim to improve the eating habits and behaviors of Filipinos to avoid diet-related, non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, cancer, and diabetes, among others.
Managing hypertension amidst the pandemic is not straightforward. It irrefutably requires a healthy diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle change in order to safeguard your health during this risky time. #RyanRequiezRodriguez
