Heart failure (HF) is a growing yet often overlooked health crisis in the Philippines. The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) urges Filipinos to take heart health seriously before it’s too late.
Heart Failure: A Silent Threat
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, and HF—a condition where the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently—is often a consequence of untreated CVD. In advanced cases, a heart transplant becomes the only viable option, but access to this life-saving procedure is severely limited in the country.
During PHA’s Usapang Puso sa Puso webinar on March 27, 2025, experts discussed the far-reaching impact of HF on patients, families, and the healthcare system.
Why You Should Be Concerned
Dr. Liberty Yaneza of the Philippine Heart Center (PHC) warns that individuals with hypertension, diabetes, or existing heart conditions face a high risk of developing HF. In its advanced stages, conventional treatments often fail, leaving patients with few options.
PHA director Dr. Avenilo “Jun” Aventura Jr. highlights the urgent need for government support in heart transplant programs, similar to the assistance provided for kidney transplants. Currently, PHC is the only hospital in the Philippines performing heart transplants, significantly limiting access to those in need.
Recognizing Heart Failure: The ‘Great Mimicker’
HF symptoms can be mistaken for other health issues, making early diagnosis crucial:
- Shortness of breath, especially when lying down
- Waking up gasping for air
- Swelling in the feet, ankles, or neck veins
- Fatigue and loss of appetite
Ignoring these symptoms can be dangerous. Early detection saves lives.
The Four Stages of Heart Failure
- Stage A: Individuals at high risk (e.g., those with hypertension or diabetes) should focus on prevention.
- Stage B: No symptoms yet, but heart damage may already exist.
- Stage C: Symptoms begin affecting daily life.
- Stage D: Advanced HF leads to frequent hospitalizations and severe limitations.
What You Can Do
- Monitor your health by tracking blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar, and weight.
- Take maintenance medications if diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease.
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet by reducing salt, sugar, unhealthy fats, and cholesterol.
- Stay active with doctor-approved exercises.
- Quit smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
The Need for Government Action
Dr. Yaneza stresses that PHC’s Heart Transplant Program requires full government backing, including financial support for lifelong post-transplant medication. Without it, many patients remain without options.
HF Clinics: Prevention Over Cure
The PHA’s National Heart Failure Network (NHFN), launched in 2021, connects 18 PHA chapters, 26 training institutions, and numerous healthcare professionals to enhance awareness and patient care. Expanding HF clinics nationwide can lead to early detection and improved management, reducing the number of severe cases.
Act Now
HF doesn’t happen overnight—it’s a gradual decline. Getting checked, staying informed, and prioritizing heart health can make all the difference. As Dr. Aventura puts it, “Let’s not wait until it’s too late.”
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