The Department of Health (DOH) Central Luzon Center for Health Development (CLCHD) said the increasing number of hypertension and diabetes cases in the region reflects stronger early detection efforts and improved access to healthcare services under the Universal Health Care (UHC) program.
DOH CLCHD Non-Communicable Diseases Cluster Head Cindy Canlas said the rise in recorded cases is linked not only to lifestyle-related risks but also to improved health-seeking behavior and expanded community-based screening services.
“Mas dumadami na ang nagsi-seek ng konsultasyon kaya mas natatala natin ang mga kaso ngayon kaysa dati,” Canlas said.
Based on the 2025 Field Health Services Information System report, Central Luzon recorded 209,222 cases of essential hypertension and 4,855 related deaths, highlighting the continued burden of noncommunicable diseases in the region.
Canlas noted that hypertension remains more common among older adults, while diabetes cases are increasingly being detected among working-age individuals. Hospital data also show emerging diagnoses among younger age groups.
“Mas maaga na rin nating nade-detect ang hypertension at diabetes ngayon dahil sa mas pinalawak na screening,” she added.
The DOH attributed the rise in cases to unhealthy lifestyle habits such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, inadequate sleep, and chronic stress.
To address the growing health concern, the agency continues to strengthen preventive programs through expanded community screening, workplace health checks, and integrated grassroots healthcare services under the Purok Kalusugan initiative.
The DOH emphasized that prevention and early detection remain key in reducing complications caused by hypertension and diabetes.
“Ang layunin natin ay ma-detect ang risk bago pa lumabas ang sintomas,” Canlas said.
She also encouraged the public to adopt healthier lifestyles by eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.
“Prevention is still better than cure—eat healthy, move more, and manage stress,” she said.
Under the UHC program, Filipinos also have access to free consultations, laboratory services, and maintenance medicines for hypertension, diabetes, and related conditions through primary care packages supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation.
Canlas urged individuals aged 20 and above, especially those with a family history of hypertension or diabetes, to undergo regular health assessments and consult healthcare facilities for early detection and proper management.
