MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) said the country is now experiencing an increasing trend in non-communicable diseases such as stroke, acute coronary syndrome (heart attack), and bronchial asthma following the holiday season.

This monitoring came after data from the Philippine Heart Center reported a rise in stroke cases from 38 in December 2023 to 42 in January 2024, marking the highest recorded number for the year. 

Similarly, ACS cases increased from 110 in December to 115 in January.

Between December 22 and 30, eight sentinel hospitals nationwide tracked cases of stroke, ACS, and bronchial asthma.

Data showed a notable rise in stroke cases, climbing from 12 on December 23 to 103 by December 30. Two fatalities were recorded, with the majority of patients aged 45 to 64.

ACS cases also increased, with numbers rising from two on December 22 to 62 by December 30, including one reported death. The condition, which includes heart attack and other blood flow disruptions to the heart, primarily affected individuals aged 55 to 74, it said.

Bronchial asthma cases similarly rose from six on December 22 to 63 by December 30, with children aged zero to nine being the most affected group. Exposure to firework smoke was identified as a contributing factor.

The DOH likewise advised the public to observe preventive measures, including maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, moderate alcohol consumption, avoiding smoke exposure, and adhering to prescribed maintenance medications.

“Ang pagdiriwang ng Pasko at pagsalubong sa Bagong Taon ay dapat na naglalakip ng maingat na mga desisyon para sa ating kalusugan. Bigyang-prayoridad natin ang kalusugan ng ating mahal sa buhay habang sinasalubong natin ang Bagong Taon,” said Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa.

Aside from the number of non-communicable diseases reported in the country, the health department also noted that the number of Filipinos involved in accidents has reached 496 cases, over 33 percent higher than the recorded road accidents in 2023.

Of the total cases, six individuals have died, with four fatalities resulting from motorcycle accidents. The department also reported that 83 of the total cases involved intoxicated victims, while 427 cases involved individuals who were not using safety accessories, such as helmets.