DOH sees surge in cardiovascular, respiratory cases in final days of 2025

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health (DOH) reported a rise in cases of heart attacks, strokes, and asthma in the final days of 2025, with acute stroke remaining the leading cause of death among Filipinos.

From December 21 to 4:59 am on Wednesday, December 31, the health department recorded 288 cases, up 5% from 274 cases during the same period in 2024.

Thirty-one new cases were reported on early Wednesday alone, according to the DOH’s disease surveillance data.

Among people aged 60 to 69, 28 of 77 cases were acute coronary syndrome and 53 of 180 were acute stroke. Bronchial asthma was reported in eight of 31 cases among children nine and younger.

Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to potentially permanent neurological damage. Heart attacks, or myocardial infarctions, result from blocked blood flow to the heart muscle, frequently linked to hypertension, high cholesterol, and lifestyle factors. Asthma, a chronic respiratory condition, can be triggered by environmental allergens, viral infections, and seasonal changes.

Health authorities emphasized the importance of timely medical intervention for stroke and heart attack symptoms, including sudden weakness, numbness, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

The DOH also urged patients with asthma to adhere to prescribed treatments and avoid known triggers, particularly during colder months and periods of high pollution.

Health authorities said they continue to monitor these conditions closely, emphasizing the need for preventive care and awareness campaigns as the nation heads into 2026. – Rappler.com