February 9-15 marks Heart Failure Awareness Week. This event coincides with the launch of the Philippine Heart Association’s (PHA) National Heart Failure Network (PHA NHFN). This initiative comes as heart failure (HF) emerges as a leading cause of death globally. It affects over 60 million people. This is more than five times the number of cancer patients. Nearly 50% of HF patients die within five years of diagnosis.
“HF is a devastating pandemic,” declared renowned Singaporean cardiologist Prof. David Sim, speaking at the Awareness Week kick-off. He emphasized the need for a strong national HF network, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The prevalence of HF in the Philippines is estimated at 1.6% to 16 per 1,000 patients, making it a significant cause of costly hospitalizations.
Dr. Erlyn Demerre, chair of the PHA Council on Heart Failure, highlighted the network’s multi-faceted approach. It unites advocates and experts from 18 PHA chapters and 25 training institutions. Key strategies include a comprehensive care and referral system, a multi-specialty team approach, and a national registry to fuel research.
Prof. Sim underscored the immense burden HF places on healthcare systems. It’s the leading cause of hospitalization for those over 65 globally, with a high 30-day readmission rate of 24%. With 60% of HF patients rehospitalized within a year, urgent intervention is crucial, he stressed.
The PHA NHFN emphasizes prevention and early intervention. Access to quality HF care shouldn’t be limited to Metro Manila, Prof. Sim stated. The network aims to reach all Filipinos through partnerships with hospitals, clinics, and primary care physicians. Standardized care, education, and resources will be made available nationwide.
Many Filipino HF patients face challenges due to lack of awareness, limited access to follow-up care, and financial constraints. Prof. Sim stressed patient education programs to empower individuals to actively manage their condition. He also highlighted the importance of family involvement, given the collective nature of healthcare decisions in Filipino culture.
The network embraces technological advancements. Telemedicine, mobile health apps, and remote monitoring will provide consistent support, even at home. AI-driven diagnostics will help predict complications proactively.
Dr. Orlando Bugarin, co-director of the PHA NHFN, emphasized the collaborative nature of the fight against HF. It requires the combined efforts of government agencies, private institutions, NGOs, and the public.
PHA Secretary Dr. Auroria Gamponia reinforced this, emphasizing the crucial role of influencers from various sectors in the network’s success. She stressed the seriousness of HF and the need for public awareness. Dr. Demerre added that one in four Filipinos is at risk. This highlights the importance of addressing hypertension. It also emphasizes managing stress and improving poor diet to prevent HF. The PHA is leading the charge, aiming to provide care for every Filipino.
