THE Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday said it will not be surprised if there will be a rise in the number of cases of hypertension, heart attacks, and stroke now that the holiday season is over.
According to DOH Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo, it is already a usual scenario when such cases go up considering the binge-eating Filipinos engage during Christmas and New Year.
"Maraming nagsasabi lalo mga private practitioners at mga hospitals na dumadami ang nagpapakonsulta at kaso ng stroke. Yan ang kanilang anecdotal statements," said Bayugo.
(A lot of private practitioners and hospitals have told us of the increase in the number of those who undergo medical consultations or have a stroke. These are there anecdotal statements)
He, however, admitted that they do not have the exact figure to go with the anecdotes.
"Usually during holiday season, tumataas ang mga kaso ng mga nagkaka-altapresyon at ibang sakit related sa sobrang pagkain," said Bayugo.
(There is an increase of high blood pressure cases and other related illnesses because of overeating)
During the Christmas season, Filipinos are known to have several parties, reunions, and get-togethers.
During these gatherings, the common menu include lechon, ham, pansit, mechado, pasta, leche flan, cakes, and other pastries.
In order to avoid being part of the statistics, the health official urged the public to consider having a healthy lifestyle in the early part of the year.
"Kung nakakain ka ng marami dapat siguro magkaroon ng healthy lifestyle, mag exercise, mag fasting," he said.
(Maybe you should have a healthy lifestyle, have some exercise, do fasting if you ate a lot)
"It is giving your body and your digestive system the time to rest and recuperate from the massive intake na naranasan," added Bayugo. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)