Hypertension Crisis: One-Third of Filipinos Aged 30-79 Affected, Control Rates Alarmingly Low
Hypertension cases among Filipinos aged 30 to 79 have surged dramatically over the past decades, escalating from fewer than 10 million cases in the year 2000 to a staggering 16.8 million in 2024, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This alarming trend is projected to continue, with cases expected to reach 20 million by the year 2030, highlighting a growing public health emergency in the Philippines.
A Silent Killer with Devastating Consequences
The 16.8 million individuals with elevated blood pressure in 2024 represent a full one-third of the Filipino population within that critical age bracket. The WHO Global Report on Hypertension 2025 further estimates that of this substantial number, a mere 19 percent have their condition effectively managed and under control. This low control rate is particularly concerning because uncontrolled hypertension serves as a major risk factor for life-threatening conditions such as stroke, heart attack, and various other cardiovascular diseases. Notably, coronary heart disease remains the leading cause of death across the country.
"It is hard to control something that you are not aware of. Most of those with hypertension have no symptoms. That’s why it is often called a silent killer. They become aware of their condition only after developing serious issues," stated Dr. Crystal Hope Guanzon, a cardiologist at Mactan Optimal Medical Center, during the recent "Hisgutan Ta!" media forum. She emphasized a common misconception, noting that many people incorrectly believe hypertension only affects the elderly. "This leads them to become complacent about getting regular check-ups and living a healthy lifestyle. But the truth is that there are several risk factors."
Key Risk Factors and Treatment Challenges
Dr. Guanzon outlined a comprehensive list of risk factors contributing to hypertension, which includes:
- An unhealthy diet high in sodium and processed foods
- Obesity and being overweight
- Physical inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle
- Smoking or the use of vaping products
- Regular and heavy consumption of alcohol
- Chronic stress and persistent anxiety
- Poor sleep quality and insufficient rest
Beyond the issue of underdiagnosis, hypertension is frequently left untreated even when identified. "Even those who know they have hypertension sometimes do not follow their doctor’s advice," Dr. Guanzon explained. "If your doctor prescribes maintenance medication to keep your blood pressure normal, you have to follow. Unfortunately, some patients stop taking their medicine as soon as their BP normalizes. This will cause their BP to slowly go up again."
She also highlighted a dangerous trend where some patients completely disregard their prescribed medications. "They rely on herbal supplements, which could be very dangerous. These are not evidence-based, which is why you can see ‘no approved therapeutic claims’ on their packaging."
Essential Preventive Measures and Management Strategies
To maintain normal blood pressure and significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, Dr. Guanzon provided clear, actionable advice for the general public:
- Adopt a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Engage in regular physical exercise and maintain an active lifestyle
- Stop or completely avoid smoking, including exposure to second-hand smoke
- Avoid or strictly minimize alcohol intake
- Ensure adequate sleep of seven to eight hours per night
For individuals already diagnosed with hypertension, she offered crucial reminders for effective management:
- Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, weight, and waistline regularly
- Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed by a physician
- Never discontinue medication without first consulting a doctor
- Schedule and attend regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
The monthly "Hisgutan Ta!" media forum also featured Dr. Elisse Nicole Catalan, Piso Consultant for Health and Hospital Development of the Cebu Provincial Government, who discussed Cebu's specific health priorities and initiatives in response to this growing crisis.
