BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
When we think of February, the first thing that comes to mind is Valentine’s Day, filled with love, flowers, chocolates, and, of course, gifts.
But did you know that this month isn’t just about love?
It’s also designated as Philippine Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about taking care of the most vital organ in our body, our heart.
But how does a person develop heart disease?
Cardiovascular diseases occur when there are blockages in the arteries leading to the heart, or when it doesn’t receive enough oxygen and blood.
These can be caused by high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, and excessive stress.
If left untreated, it can lead to a heart attack or stroke, and yes, it can be fatal.
It remains the leading cause of death worldwide.
In the Philippines, data from the Philippine Statistics Authority and Stanford Medicine show that over 100,000 Filipinos die each year due to heart-related illnesses.
This is why Philippine Heart Month aims to spread awareness through health campaigns, free check-ups, and information drives on heart disease prevention.
Nationwide, seminars, medical missions, fun runs, and other health-related activities are being held.
The government is also providing free access to blood pressure monitoring, cholesterol screenings, and anti-smoking campaigns under the Sin Tax Law, which helps fund health programs.
Hospitals and health centers also offer free or discounted heart check-ups, especially during Philippine Heart Month.
Despite these celebrations and campaigns, the most important factor is our individual responsibility for our health.
Eating right, regular exercise, managing stress, and quitting harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption greatly help in preventing heart disease.
So this month of love, expressing affection isn’t just about romantic gestures.
Take the time to love and care for yourself by protecting the most important gift of life—our heart.
Because in the end, true love starts with loving yourself.
