The Department of Health (DOH) is alarmed that six out of ten Filipinos with hypertension are not taking their maintenance medications properly.
Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) Hypertension Philippines 2023 Profile showed that about 14.5 million Filipinos 30 and 79 years old experience hypertension and only 5.3 million, or 37 percent, are under medication.
It also showed that 9.2 million Filipinos, or more than 60 percent, are not taking medicine for the said disease or discontinue taking it without the guidance of their doctor.
DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa said that individuals diagnosed with hypertension must never stop taking medication unless directed by a doctor or medical specialist.
Hypertension can cause stroke or heart attack when not managed with proper medication.
Herbosa added that aside from proper medication, people with hypertension should also maintain a healthy lifestyle by always getting proper nutrition, regular exercise, and cutting out any vices.