Health Span vs. Life Span: A Filipino Perspective In the Philippines, where vibrant culture and warm-hearted communities thrive, understanding the balance between health span and life span becomes essential. Health Span : Refers to the number of years a person can expect to live in relatively good health, free from chronic diseases and disabilities associated with aging. For our hypothetical Filipino, with a health span of 63 years, these are the golden years of vitality, energy, and well-being. Life Span : Represents the total number of years a person lives. Our Filipino friend’s life span is 80 years—a journey filled with experiences, memories, and milestones. Bridging the Gap: Lifestyle Choices : Filipinos can extend their health span by embracing an active lifestyle. Regular exercise, whether it’s dancing, walking, or playing traditional games, contributes to overall well-being. Nutrition : Savoring local delicacies like sinigang, adobo, and fresh fruits ensures a balanced di...

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant health concern in the Philippines, yet many people remain unaware of its causes and preventive measures. Let's delve into the key factors contributing to CKD in the country. Causes: 1. **Diabetes and Hypertension**: These two conditions top the list as the primary causes of CKD in the Philippines. High blood sugar levels (diabetes) and elevated blood pressure (hypertension) can damage the delicate blood vessels in the kidneys over time, impairing their function. 2. **Nephrolithiasis (Kidney Stones)**: Kidney stones are more common than we realize. Millions of Filipinos may have kidney stones without even being aware of it. These stones can cause blockages and inflammation, leading to pain. If left untreated, complications like sepsis or bacterial infections can arise. Chronic kidney stones also increase the risk of CKD. 3. **Polycystic Kidney Disease**: A genetic disorder where fluid-filled cysts form in the kidneys. Over time, these cy...

Colorectal cancer is a significant health concern in the Philippines.  Colorectal cancer ranks third among the most common cancers in the Philippines. In 2020, there were 17,364 recorded cases of colorectal cancer across all ages and both sexes.  Unfortunately, it is also the second leading cause of mortality among patients diagnosed with cancer. The risk of colorectal cancer increases with age, with the majority of affected individuals being 50 years and older.  Lifestyle Factors. Risk factors include alcohol abuse, obesity, excessive intake of processed meats, smoking, and physical inactivity. Having a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer also increases the risk. Look out for changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), narrowing of stool caliber, blood in stools, and unintended weight. Colorectal cancer cases among younger people have been increasing. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted colorectal cancer screening worldwide, with scr...