By Liza Soriano
MANILA — Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa has reminded the public to be cautious of holiday heart syndrome, a condition associated with the festive season.
According to the DOH, holiday heart syndrome occurs due to excessive alcohol consumption, stress, lack of rest, and the intake of salty or fatty foods, all of which can elevate blood pressure. This condition may lead to arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythms, which is one of the causes of stroke.
The DOH reported that, as it monitored various hospitals, the Philippine Heart Center (PHC) recorded 60 stroke cases between July and November 2024.
“Maaari pang tumaas ang bilang ng mga kaso ng stroke pagkatapos ng Pasko at pagsalubong sa bagong taon kung hindi mapipigilan ang labis na pag-inom ng alak at pagkain mula sa sunud-sunod na handaan,” the DOH said.
From December 1 to 20, 2024, seven stroke cases were recorded even before Christmas.
Meanwhile, East Avenue Medical Center (EAMC) reported a steady increase in stroke cases when comparing the number of cases in December 2020 to those in December 2023. There were 188 stroke patients in December 2020.
The DOH is urging Filipino families to maintain healthy habits during the holiday season. This includes proper diet, regular exercise, and discipline when it comes to food and drink consumption as they welcome the New Year.
“Mahal po ng Kagawaran ng Kalusugan ang ating mga kababayan. Katulad ng pag-aalaga ninyo sa inyong mga kaanak, kami ay nagpapaalala na iwasan ang sobra-sobrang pagkain ng mga maaalat, matataba, at matatamis na pagkain ngayong holiday season. Damihan po natin ang pagkain ng gulay at prutas na dapat kalahati ng inyong Pinggang Pinoy. Humanap po tayo ng oras na mag-ehersisyo,” said Herbosa.
ia/mnm
