Announcements and Advisories

Philippine Heart Month 2023

02/07/2023 Bulletin Board

In line with the celebration of Heart Month this February, the Medical Services Department supports the Department of Health with this year’s theme ; “Gulay at Prutas Araw-arawin, Matamis, Mamantika at Maalat Hinay-hinayin”

In the Philippines, deaths related to Non-Communicable Diseases are attributed to cardiovascular diseases(33%), cancer(10%), diabetes(6%) and chronic respiratory diseases(5%)(WHO Report on NCD Country Profiles 2014). The Food and Nutrition Research Institute(FNRI) National Nutrition Survey showed that there is an increasing prevalence in the following behavioral factors from 2008 to 2013:diabetes from 4.8% to 5.4% and overweight among adults from 26.6% to 31.1% while decreasing trends for hypertension from 25.3% to 22.3% and current adult smokers rom 31.0% to 25.4% (Source: https://doh.gov.ph/node/9296)

Valentines Day is fast approaching, the DOH reminded the public some heart-friendly tips to celebrate it in a healthier  way:

1. Instead of buying your sweetheart ann overload of cakes, sweets and fatty foods, why not give a more permanent gift. A poem,letter or messagemay convey more feeling.
2. If you choose to buy chocolates, choose dark chocolate with less sugar and caramel added.Dark chocolate should be made up of at least 60-70% cocoa. It has flavanoids, antioxidants, which are good for the heart and blood vessels. Eat only a moderate amount,approximately an ounce around 30 grams) a day.
3. Be active on Valentines Day. Plan an outing or walk around a park or mall.Walking for 30 min. Is good for your heart.
4. Home cooking is healthier than restaurant food. Instead of an expensive restaurant for a date, why not cook at home and enjoy a romantic dinner for two. For example, you can eat fish like tuna, mackarel, bangus and salmon.
5. Split your meal in two. If you still want to go to a restaurant for a date, splitting your meal can cut calorie intake in half.
6. Eat fresh fruits. If you want to eat something sweet, local fresh fruits in season are the healthier choice.
7. Don’t smoke. If your sweetheart is a smoker, encourage him or her to quit smoking. Smoking can lead to heart attack or stroke. Hence,quitting is the best Valentine’s gift for your loved one.
8. Be faithful to your partner. Reduce your stress and enjoy life more.

(Source: https://doh.gov.ph/node/9296)

There are other several ways to rduce the risk of developing cardivascular diseases such as keeping a healthy weight, reduce alcohol consumption, keep your blood pressure under control and get good quality sleep.

The Medical Services Department encourage the PUP community to visit the University Clinic for check-ups, health assesment and medical advise ensuring employees, faculty and student’s health.