Dr. Suba-an also cited that the province of Iloilo “opened a window of opportunities” for other LGUs to learn about the management of NCDs.
It includes mobilizing the barangay health workers as well as educating the community to have a healthier lifestyle. The BHWs were also trained to do simple blood pressure test.
For his part, Gov. Defensor said the provincial government will make the management of NCDs a “mainstream program” of the province.
He stressed that NCDs are among the most serious health problems but they do not get enough attention compared to other diseases.
“We want to give it more attention every day. That should be part of the daily grind of the Provincial Health Office and the hospitals,” Defensor said.
Data from the Provincial Health Office indicated that seven out of the top 10 leading causes of mortality in Iloilo province are attributed to NCDs.
These are myocardial infarction, cancer, diabetes mellitus, kidney diseases, coronary artery diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, and congestive heart failure.
The governor added that he is happy to work with the WHO which is a longtime partner of the provincial government.
To recall, the province of Iloilo was chosen to host the first World Heart Day 2022 celebration in the country last Sept. 29, 2022 following its successful implementation of the Healthy Hearts Program. (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo/Capitol News)
