Strengthening stroke prevention and awareness in the Philippines: a conceptual framework

Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, with low and middle-income countries bearing the greatest burden. This article focuses on stroke prevention and awareness in the Philippines, a country grappling with high stroke incidence and limited healthcare resources. The two-pronged approach presented by the authors aims to address the challenges of stroke care by combining community-based prevention and targeted public awareness campaigns. The community-based stroke prevention component involves personalized risk factor assessments and tailored interventions conducted at local health centers. By identifying modifiable risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and elevated cholesterol levels, healthcare professionals can provide targeted education and interventions to individuals at risk. Additionally, the decentralized targeted stroke awareness campaigns emphasize public education through culturally adapted materials, engagement with local stakeholders, and media campaigns. These initiatives seek to increase awareness of stroke symptoms and prompt presentation in medical facilities. By implementing this comprehensive approach, we aim to mitigate the burden of stroke in the Philippines, improve stroke outcomes, and raise public awareness about stroke recognition and prevention.

E-Smoking out the Facts: The Philippines' Vaping Dilemma

The Commercial Determinants of Health (CDH) have a major impact on the health of a country's population. The marketing and promotion of products and services by corporations, especially multinational businesses, can significantly impact individuals and communities, both positively and negatively. The vaping epidemic in the Philippines is an example of how commercial influences and government policies, in the context of disinformation, can exacerbate public health issues. The Philippines is facing a rising use of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) among youth. We conducted a literature review in PubMed and Google Scholar to examine the state of vaping in the Philippines and the lack of research on the health implications of the growing e-cigarette industry. We also discussed the vape bill which lapsed into law - Republic Act 11900, which regulates e-cigarettes and transfers the regulatory power from the Department of Health to the Department of Trade and Industry. We outlined a call to action on three fronts: tailoring national policies, funding research, and improving health education in the youth. Policymakers must prioritize public health gains over economic benefits and consider the impact of their decisions on future generations' health choices.