Season of strokes
HEALTH authorities expect an increase in the number of heart attack, stroke, and diabetes cases during the holiday season in the Philippines.
In fact, no less than Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, a medical doctor, described the holidays as “the season of strokes and heart attacks.”
With the holding of Christmas parties in government and private offices, “I think it’s about health choices” during the season,” said Herbosa.
The Department of Health (DOH) top honcho had earlier advised the Filipino people to refrain from eating the so-called “ma” foods.
Herbosa was referring to “mataba, matamis and maalat” foods or those that are fatty, sugary and salty, which are abundant during parties.
Admittedly, these foods may heighten the risk of hypertension, cholesterol and diabetes, according to the health secretary.
With the threat of more stroke and heart attack cases as Christmas Day and New Year near, we urge the public to heed the call of Herbosa.
“Dapat iwasan natin ang mga matatamis, matataba at maaalat na pagkain kung gusto nating umiwas sa mga sakit,” a diabetic said.
Like other well-meaning Filipinos, we agree with Herbosa when he warned of the health risks the Christmas Season may bring to the people.
To avoid getting sick, let’s then make “healthy choices” during the holidays.
