Philippines sees deadly spike in heart-related diseases before Christmas

Two people passed away due to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Philippines just before Christmas Day. The casualties occurred between December 21 and December 24, part of a wider surge in cases reported during this period. Health officials recorded a total of 79 NCD cases across the country in those four days alone.

The latest figures show acute stroke and acute coronary syndrome as the most common conditions. There were 45 cases of acute stroke, with 15 of those affected aged between 60 and 69. Acute coronary syndrome followed closely, with 25 cases reported—14 of them in the same age group.

One death was linked to stroke, while the other resulted from acute coronary syndrome. Bronchial asthma also appeared in the data, with nine recorded cases. Four of these patients were children aged between 0 and 9.

No specific breakdown of NCD deaths or cases was available for the four pilot sites monitored by the Philippine Department of Health in 2023.

The spike in NCD cases highlights ongoing health challenges during the holiday season. Two lives were lost, and dozens more required medical attention due to strokes, heart conditions, and respiratory issues. Officials continue to monitor trends as the year draws to a close.