FridayOL

Manila, Philippines – As the nation observes National Diabetes Awareness Week, a coalition of leading health experts and patient advocacy groups are sounding the alarm about the rising prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in the Philippines. They are urgently calling for increased public awareness, early screening initiatives, and improved access to affordable and effective treatment options.

The collaborative summit, held recently, brought together medical professionals, policymakers, and patient representatives to discuss the interconnected nature of these two chronic conditions. Studies show a significant overlap between T2D and CKD, with diabetes being a leading cause of kidney failure. Left unmanaged, both diseases can lead to devastating health complications, reduced quality of life, and substantial healthcare costs.

“The situation is critical,” stated Dr. Maria Santos, a renowned endocrinologist. “We are seeing an alarming increase in both diabetes and kidney disease, particularly among younger Filipinos. Many individuals are unaware they have these conditions until they experience serious complications. Early detection is absolutely vital to prevent irreversible damage and improve long-term health outcomes.”

Why Early Action Matters

Experts emphasized that proactive measures can significantly impact the progression of both diseases. For diabetes, lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and weight management can often effectively control blood sugar levels. For CKD, early intervention can slow the decline of kidney function and potentially delay the need for dialysis or kidney transplant.

“We need to shift our focus from reactive treatment to preventative care,” explained Mr. Ricardo dela Cruz, a representative from a patient advocacy group. “This means educating the public about risk factors, promoting regular health check-ups, and making screening tests accessible and affordable, especially in underserved communities.”

Key Recommendations & Future Initiatives

• Enhanced Public Awareness Campaigns: Targeted campaigns using various media platforms to educate Filipinos about diabetes and CKD risk factors, symptoms, and preventative measures.
• Increased Screening Programs: Expanding access to affordable and convenient screening tests, particularly for high-risk individuals (those with family history, obesity, high blood pressure, etc.).
• Improved Healthcare Access: Ensuring that individuals with diabetes and CKD have access to quality medical care, including medications, consultations with specialists, and diabetes education programs.
• Policy Advocacy: Working with policymakers to implement policies that support preventative care, promote healthy lifestyles, and address the social determinants of health that contribute to these diseases.
• Research & Innovation: Investing in research to better understand the prevalence and risk factors of diabetes and CKD in the Philippines, and to develop innovative treatment strategies.

The call to action is clear: By prioritizing early detection, prevention, and comprehensive care, the Philippines can effectively combat the growing burden of diabetes and kidney disease and improve the health and well-being of its citizens. The collaborative efforts of health professionals, patient advocates, and policymakers are essential to achieving this goal.

This article was published in conjunction with National Diabetes Awareness Week and aims to raise awareness about the importance of proactive health management for diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease.