RHEA Generics, a trusted name in the field of generic medicine in the Philippines, is advocating for preventive measures against cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which accounted for over 30% of deaths in the country in 2021 according to the World Health Organization. These diseases, such as heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes, are often referred to as “silent killers” because they exhibit little or no symptoms and can lead to death if left untreated. Many people are unaware that they have CVDs, making it crucial to know how to protect ourselves against them.
Taking steps to prevent these silent killers is more important than ever, and knowing how to care for our hearts’ health is a good starting point. RHEA Generics has shared some practical tips for making healthy lifestyle changes that can improve heart health:
Stay away from tobacco
According to scientific research, cigarette smoke contains chemicals that can cause inflammation and swelling in the cells that line the blood vessels, leading to the development of various cardiovascular conditions. To maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent heart disease, it is essential to quit smoking or using smokeless tobacco. Even non-smokers should avoid exposure to secondhand smoke to reduce the risk of heart disease. After just one year of quitting, the risk of heart disease is reduced by half compared to that of a smoker. After 15 years, the risk of heart disease is the same as that of a non-smoker. RHEA Generics recommends these measures to protect your heart health.
Prevent alcohol use
RHEA Generics recommends avoiding alcohol consumption to protect one’s heart, as it has been linked to over 200 diseases and injury conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, according to the WHO. Although most Filipinos report drinking alcohol occasionally, binge drinking is widespread in the country. As there is no safe level of alcohol consumption, it is better to avoid it altogether.
Keep a healthy weight
RHEA Generics stresses the importance of maintaining a healthy weight as being overweight, especially around the middle of the body, can increase the risk of heart disease. According to the National Nutrition Council (NNC), 28.7% of Filipino adults aged 20 to 59 years old are overweight, while 9.3% are obese. Excess weight can lead to conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes, which can increase the chances of developing heart disease. To reduce this risk, RHEA Generics recommends stress reduction techniques, healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Be active by increasing physical activities
RHEA Generics recommends engaging in regular physical activity as it has many benefits, such as improved levels of cholesterol and other blood lipids, better blood pressure, and weight management. Even if someone is inactive, they can begin with small amounts of physical activity and gradually increase its duration, frequency, and intensity. To maintain good heart health, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical exercise each week, which can include activities like brisk walking, stair climbing, dancing, gardening, or household chores that cause a mild increase in heart rate.
Get regular health screenings
Maintaining a healthy heart requires regular check-ups of blood pressure and blood sugar by a healthcare professional. Some individuals may have high blood pressure without exhibiting any symptoms, which can be harmful to the heart. RHEA Generics advises people to discuss any concerns related to their behavior with their healthcare provider, such as an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, or use of tobacco and alcohol. By doing so, healthcare providers can help individuals plan the necessary lifestyle changes to improve their heart health.
Eat a heart-healthy diet
Maintaining a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products while avoiding saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and sodium can reduce the risk of developing heart disease. RHEA Generics recommends avoiding processed, canned, and fast foods, replacing sweetened snacks with fresh fruits and vegetables, and substituting sweetened beverages with water.
Unfortunately, access to nutritious food and basic healthcare services can be expensive for many Filipinos. To address this, RHEA Generics provides affordable and accessible world-class quality healthcare products without compromising their safety. They have partnered with international pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and Sanofi to ensure that Filipinos have access to medicines for hypertension, heart attack, and stroke prevention.
Philusa Corporation President and General Manager Neogin Evangelista emphasizes that every Filipino deserves accessible quality healthcare. RHEA Generics continues to innovate and improve their products to reach every Filipino family. To learn more, visit the nearest Mercury Drug store, but always remember to only purchase medicine with a doctor’s prescription to ensure safety.
