By Janna Marie Pineda
Thirty-six percent, or about one in three Filipinos, suffered from heart disease in 2024, according to the Field Health Service Information System (FHSIS) of the Department of Health (DOH).
Over the past five years, heart disease has remained the leading cause of death among Filipinos based on the 2024 report of the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
This is most commonly caused by Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), which occurs when the heart’s arteries become blocked due to a buildup of cholesterol or fat. Most risk factors for CAD are modifiable, making it vital to take action before it leads to a heart attack.
Are you at risk?
According to DOH, individuals at the highest risk of developing heart disease include those who are obese or overweight, smokers, and frequent alcohol consumers. Other critical risk factors include underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the risk naturally increases among the elderly population.
Help is available
Good news is, the support systems for managing heart health are now more accessible. Over the past two years, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has implemented a series of reforms, specifically expanding its benefit packages to address the high costs of cardiovascular care. From diagnostic tests to life-saving surgeries like angioplasty, help is available.
Through the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP), members can access early screening services, including free medical consultation and outpatient laboratory tests such as Electrocardiogram (ECG), Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) tests, and cholesterol monitoring to help assess cardiovascular risk.
For patients requiring more intensive intervention, PhilHealth has increased its coverage for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) from P30,300 to P523,853.
Commonly known as angioplasty, this life-saving procedure involves the use of a stent to reopen obstructed coronary arteries and restore vital blood flow.
The state insurer has also significantly expanded the benefit package for Fibrinolysis, increasing coverage to P133,500 from P30,290. Administered in urgent cases, this treatment uses specialized medication to dissolve life-threatening clots and restore vital circulation to the heart. Post-PCI cardiac rehabilitation is also supported, with a benefit package valued at P66,140.
For even more complex conditions, the Z Benefits package extends substantial financial relief for major heart surgeries. Coverage for a Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) for standard-risk patients has been set at P960,000.
In addition, PhilHealth prioritizes pediatric heart health by providing P614,000 in coverage for children requiring surgical repairs for Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) or Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), ensuring that life-saving care is within reach for Filipino families.
Prevention is still the best protection
While age is a factor one cannot control, the DOH emphasizes that lifestyle-related risks are modifiable. By making conscious choices today, you can significantly lower your chances of a heart attack. Key preventive measures include:
- Heart-healthy diet: Eating healthy and reducing intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and sodium (salt).
- Active living: Engaging in at least 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise to strengthen the heart muscle.
- Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking immediately reduces the strain on your arteries and improves oxygen flow.
In observance of Philippine Heart Month this February, Filipinos are reminded that while advanced medical support is more accessible than ever, the power of prevention starts at home. By pairing PhilHealth’s expanded life-saving benefits with proactive lifestyle choices, Filipinos are empowered to take charge of their health and develop a more heart-healthy lifestyle. (JMP/PIA-NCR)
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