Lifestyle change still key to heart’s health

Lifestyle | Health & Family Posted on 2026-03-12 00:25:56

CEBU CITY, Cebu — In line with this year’s Philippine Heart Month, the Department of Health in Central Visayas (DOH-7) is reminding Filipinos to monitor their heart health and adopt healthier lifestyles to prevent heart-related diseases.

Joan Antonette R. Albito, medical officer IV of DOH-7, shared practical health tips to help prevent cardiovascular diseases during the recent Kapihan sa PIA forum in Cebu City.

Albito stressed that lifestyle monitoring and healthy habits play a vital role in keeping the heart healthy.

“It starts with lifestyle change—eating healthy food, avoiding frequent intake of fatty foods, and if possible, reducing a high-salt diet,” Albito said.

She also encouraged the public to stay physically active and manage stress to lower the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

“It’s important to exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes a day, avoid excessive smoking, limit alcohol intake, manage stress, and make sure to get enough rest or sleep,” she added.

According to DOH-7, heart or cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death in Central Visayas, recording a mortality rate of 89 percent in 2023.

Because of this, the agency continues to strengthen its campaign to promote heart health through health lectures, awareness programs, and community fitness challenges.

DOH-7 also provides consultation services in partnership with local government units (LGUs) across the region.

The agency further urged individuals experiencing possible symptoms of heart disease to seek medical attention immediately and take advantage of government health programs such as the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation Konsulta Package.

Under this program, members of PhilHealth can access various free healthcare services, including screening tests.

“We have the PhilHealth Konsulta Package, which is free for members. This includes screening tests such as X-ray, ECG, and blood tests. Just visit the nearest primary health care facility to avail of the package,” Albito said.

NPO News Team | PIA Philippine Information Agency - PR

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