Filipino Health Issues and Problems

The New Anti-Rabies Law

2008-09-11T05:19:00.000+08:00

Dogs straying around the streets are a common site in the Philippines. Sadly, most of these are unvaccinated. This was the main reason why the dreaded effects of rabies in the Philippines could not be eliminated totally.

Good thing that the senate has approved of a law called the Anti-Rabies Act of 2007 also kn own as the Republic Act 9482 last May 25, 2008 authored by Sen. Pia Cayetano.

The components of the program are:

Mass vaccination of dogs
Establishing a central database for registered and vaccinated dogs.
Impounding of stray dogs
Field control and disposition of unregistered stray, and unvaccinated dogs
Information and educational campaigns to prevent and control rabies
Pre-exposure treatment for high-risk people and post-exposure treatment for the animal-bite victims
Free routine immunization of schoolchildren who are aged 5-14 in places with significant incidence of rabies
Encouraging responsible pet ownership
Prescribing penalties for violation of the law

The penalties for violation of the law are:

P2,000 for failing or refusing to have their dog registered and immunized against rabies. If the dog bites someone, the owner will pay for the vaccination of the dog and the person bitten.
P10,000 for refusing to place their dog under observation after it has bitten a person
P25,000 for refusing to have their dog observed and for not shouldering the medical expenses of the bitten person
P500 for refusing to put their dogs on a leash.

We just hope that this law could be implemented strictly.

Osteoporosis and Men

2008-07-15T22:48:00.005+08:00

The US National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) has released a guidelines recommending a bone mineral density xray test for all men aged 70 and older as researches found out that this disease, previously believed to highly afflict women is common in both sexes as they age.

Nearly six percent of men over age 50 will suffer a hip fracture, and 20 to 25 percent of all hip fractures occur in men. There’s a recognition, more so now than in the past, that men are at risk,” says Jay Magaziner, MD, of the University of Maryland medical school, who has long researched hip fractures — osteoporosis’ most feared complication.

New Recommendations

In addition to routine bone check for older men, the new NOF guidelines recommend the following:

• Treat postmenopausal women and men 50 and older who have thinning bones, but are not osteoporotic yet, if they have at least a 20-percent risk of any major fracture in the next decade, or at least a three-percent risk of a hip fracture.

• Check for osteoporosis risk factors in postmenopausal women and men 50 and over, to see who needs a bone density test before their senior year.

• A bone density test is recommended for anyone who has any type of fracture after age 50 or who has conditions associated with bone loss, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

• For adults over 50, prescribe 1,200mg. a day of calcium and 800 to 1,000 IU a day of vitamin D. (Note that this is more vitamin D than the present recommendation.)

• Do regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.

The Right and Effective Home Remedy for Acid Reflux

2008-07-15T22:46:00.001+08:00

Are you fond of eating junk food, protein-rich food and processed foods? If you do, well, this is bad news for you. You are certainly a candidate for an acid reflux problem in your stomach and esophagus.

Acid reflux is a condition that is a prelude to ulcer. It is caused by a disturbance in the acid-alkaline condition in the stomach.

Eating specific acid foods that are hard to digest induces stomach spasms or twitching which causes the cardiac sphincter, opening between the esophagus and stomach to open for gases to form that should not.
This is an indigestion problem that has gotten out of hand and created acid wastes to flow up to your esophagus causing an irritation. This irritation, if not controlled can result to ulcers and other infections. The acid reflux diet that you have been eating should now be changed.

Once you have the symptoms of acid reflux, you need not resort to medications at once to cure the problem. You can start with home remedies that are surely less expensive.

You may start with changing your diet. You have to say goodbye to the following food and beverages: tea, coffee, radishes, garlic, onion, spices (pepper), oils, alcohol, sugar, soft drinks, diet soft drinks, asparagus (Brussels sprouts), high protein foods, pasta noodles, corn starch, eggs, plums, prunes, cranberries, and all processed foods including junk foods. Now, you may want to cry. All your comfort foods are gone.

If you think, you cannot abruptly eliminate them in your diet; start with taking just small amounts. Then start substituting them with the following: fruits, citric fruits in small amounts though due to their acidic content, all kinds of vegetables and almonds.
If you feel that you are not feeling the acid reflux symptoms anymore, you may go back to your previous diet in moderation though to prevent recurrence of the acid reflux.

Aside from proper diet, there are practical home remedies to avoid the acid reflux symptom. They are:
· Avoid smoking before or during meals.
· Eat in an upright sitting position.
· Do not lie on the bed immediately after eating.
· Take small walks after eating. It stimulates the digestive system.
· Avoid exercise after a large meal.
· Avoid wearing tight clothes.
· Do not drink alcohol while eating.
· Chew food slowly and thoroughly.

One of the home remedies for treating acid reflux is the ginger alternative. Ingesting ginger with a meal helps to reduce an upset stomach. The ginger is grounded and added to foods and taken in tea or capsule form. Most herbalists recommend consuming 500mg. of ginger with a full glass of water after meals.

We are often told by our physicians to drink more water, if possible at least 8 glasses each day. The water helps eliminate body toxins and allow the body to expel acid naturally.

Green tea has been used for centuries in Japan and other oriental countries as an after dinner drink. Green teas assist the body in the digestion process, and help soothe the stomach's sensitive tissue.

Herbal teas containing peppermint, chamomile, ginger, licorice root and catnip even in just small traces help the stomach lining repair itself. Often, one cup of tea following dinner is enough to reduce future acid reflux symptoms.

So, kiss acid reflux symptom goodbye!

Avoid Food/Beverages That Cause Acid Reflux, Change Your Lifestyle

2008-07-15T22:44:00.000+08:00

Many people get hungry because they lack food. Children become malnourished if they are not given the right amount of food which contains the needed vitamins and minerals which in turn make the body strong and healthy.

The fact is, not all foods are healthy. The most popular unhealthy food is 'junk foods'. Just as the word suggests, junk, which means it is like garbage. But many people are still patronizing these kinds of food.

People diagnosed with certain diseases often are given a list of foods to avoid. And this is true with the case of a person having acid reflux. Acid reflux or the GERD is a condition wherein stomach acids go back to the esophagus because of the improper functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter. If this condition is not treated, it will only get worse which can cause serious complications.

You can effectively tell if you have acid reflux if you experience symptoms like sour taste, burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen and your throat's back, excessive belching, breathing difficulties, tightness of throat, difficulty in swallowing food, and bad breath.

If you frequently experience these symptoms, then you probably have acid reflux. Visit your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis, so that you will know the severity of your condition.

There are certain beverages and foods which cause acid reflux, and this includes the following:

- chocolate
- coffee
- spearmint and peppermint
- alcoholic drinks
- fruit juices
- fatty foods and fried foods
- onions
- citrus fruits
- spicy foods
- products which are tomato-based
- caffeinated drinks

A change in your diet is the most effective way to deal with acid reflux. Although at first you may feel deprived of these foods, think of what will happen if you continue to eat or drink these beverages and foods.

Start your change in diet by keeping a record of your food intake. In this manner, you can tell which of the foods or beverages causes your acid reflux. So every time you experience that burning sensation, take note of what you've actually eaten. Once you have the list accomplished, put it somewhere where you can easily see it, like the refrigerator.

A lifestyle change may seem rather difficult. Your doctor can greatly help you in your transition. The very first thing that you should do is to set a goal, like for instance eating small meals, while avoiding those above-mentioned foods. Slowly quit smoking and drinking. Of course, you can't expect an abrupt change.

Every time you feel any of the symptoms, you will be instantly reminded that you're on the wrong path. Self-discipline is very much important to attain a successful lifestyle change.

While many people are taking antacids, others are finding it better to stick with the natural way. On the long run, antacids are not that good for your body, even to your stomach. It would be better to start changing your lifestyle, the sooner the better.

Besides, a healthy lifestyle doesn't only prevent acid reflux but other diseases as well. You will gain more benefit in changing your life entirely, especially regarding food eating habits. Eat the right kinds of food at the right amount, and you'll stay healthy. Prevent acid reflux, change…

Acid Reflux and the Cure: Apple Cider Vinegar

2008-07-15T22:43:00.000+08:00

Snow white slowly took a small bite of the apple and she fell to the ground losing consciousness. Most children, and even the adults, are familiar with this fairy tale story. It is in fact just a tale, but in real life, the apple can make wonders.

In reality, many people suffer from many diseases; and the worst thing to happen to a person is to die from suffering such disease. But before the situation leads to an unpleasant end, you must be aware that these are still old-time home remedies which really work.

The apple cider vinegar has been used in many homes for many years now. It is proven to cure many ailments like allergies, acne, sinus infections, flu, high cholesterol, candida, chronic fatigue, contact dermatitis, sore throats, gout, arthritis, and acid reflux.

There are a large number of people suffering from acid reflux or the GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease). This usually happens when the LES or the lower esophageal sphincter does not function properly. The contents of the stomach, particularly the liquid, go back to the esophagus. The liquid contains pepsin and stomach acids. The pepsin digests proteins and the acid from the stomach burns the walls of the esophagus causing heartburn.

Experiencing heartburn once in a while should be a cause for worry, but if you experience the sensation more than two times each week, it's time that you consult a doctor.

Acid reflux is harmful once the esophagus' lining is destroyed, so you should undergo medication once you've been examined and diagnosed with acid reflux to prevent further complications.

Acid reflux is usually treated with antacids, but some people complain that it only makes the situation even worse. If you use antacids, the body will only produce more acids to compensate the decrease in body acids. The reflux will only worsen after the dose wears off at the end of the day.

Apple cider vinegar is now more preferred by people who want a natural way to cure their acid reflux. Going back to natural medicines are also helpful, but it requires patience and time. Natural remedies take some time before you can actually see the effects or results.

A bottle of apple cider vinegar costs between three to four dollars. It's even cheaper than buying antacids. The best possible cure for acid reflux is just in your kitchen. But if you can't find one in your kitchen, look for it in the supermarket.

Here is the dosage of drinking apple cider vinegar: two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (ACV) diluted in water at least thrice a day. You need a much stronger concoction if you're currently treating the disease.

Some experience side effects like a metallic/acid taste and a burning tongue. Most people don’t like its taste, but to be cured, you must withstand its unpleasant taste. The apple cider vinegar really works wonders; in fact, you can find many customer testimonials about the benefits of the vinegar.

It doesn’t matter what brand of apple cider vinegar you choose to buy, as long as it gives the needed relief. Studies have proved its effectiveness, so don’t hesitate to use it. Perhaps Snow White was better off drinking apple cider instead of biting that big red apple that the old woman offered.

The Two Most Common Acid Reflux Surgery with Quick Recovery

2008-07-15T22:42:00.000+08:00

Did you know that unhealthy eating habits can cause acid reflux? Based on scientific research, anyone, even infants and young children have a tendency to have acid reflux. This disorder is most common in infants and young children but in time, disappears. Acid reflux known also as gastro-esophageal reflux disease can definitely affect adults too. This is a disorder that could happen anytime especially to someone who had just had a large meal with lots of acidic foods or even someone with history of acid reflux, thus, having recurrences of the disorder due to unhealthy eating patterns.

Unhealthy diet and an inappropriate eating schedule can cause acid reflux. As a person consumes a heavy meal, full of acid foods, an abnormality in the stomach can occur like bringing back the food induced to the esophagus and throat. Acid reflux is unexplainable to many because this condition can occur anytime but are most likely to occur after several heavy meals or unhealthy eating habits.

Many people with acid reflux can control their condition by means of medical treatment and even appropriate diet. Some people with a severe condition of acid reflux should consider surgical procedures because for most people, acid reflux surgery is the best solutions for this disorder. There are several surgical procedures that acid reflux patients can choose from. The most effective and safe acid reflux surgeries are Laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery, also known as Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication and Intraluminal Endoscopic surgery that most patients encounter.

Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication, or fundoplication for short, is the most common form of acid reflux surgery. This surgery is performed by tightening the walls of the esophagus in the area next to the stomach then adding pressure to the lower esophageal muscles. When the pressure increased between the stomach and esophagus, this medical procedure prevents the content of the stomach to go upward inside the throat and esophagus. Another method mostly considered by other patients with acid reflux is having the esophageal valve tightened in order to seal the esophagus and prevent gastric acid to enter.

Intraluminal endoscopic acid reflux surgery is another acid reflux surgery that most patients prefer. This surgical procedure has the same procedure as the fundoplication except that it involves a small optical, tubular instrument that is needed to be inserted in the body and at the same time, view the inner parts of the body that needs surgical or biopsy attention thus allowing an actual biopsy or surgery to be performed. This is possible through the so called endoscope. Intraluminal endoscopic acid reflux surgery is quick and has minimal risks for the patients. As such, a post-operatory treatment is not required but allows possibly fast recovery for patients as well.

Because of medical advancement and millions of modern treatments, acid reflux can now be treated. Patients who wish to rid of acid reflux can do so because of the options given to them through possible medications, proper diet or surgery. Likewise, surgery is most recommended to people with chronic acid reflux but is now available to patients with less serious conditions of acid reflux. Henceforth, surgical procedures have been the most common way of getting rid of acid reflux completely and permanently. In mind, patients that are considering surgery will have quick recovery after the surgical procedures and will no longer have acid reflux.

Acid Reflux in Baby: Keeping Your Baby Protected

2008-07-15T22:35:00.000+08:00

Acid reflux, which is also termed as gastroesophageal reflux, is one of the most frequent problems among infants. Babies with acid reflux often suffer from a range of conditions, from a mild degree to a severe one, such as recurrent spitting up, abdominal pain, and night waking.

This discussion would be more comprehensive with the understanding of the physiological or the mechanical aspect of the condition. The body has a band of muscle in a circular structure that is called the lower esophageal sphincter. This muscle detaches the esophagus from the stomach. When food comes into the stomach, it closes so as to prevent the stomach acids and contents from backing up into the esophagus or regurgitating. But in the case of some babies, the lower esophageal sphincter has grown immature. As such, the partially digested food and digestive acids are allowed to be refluxed. This condition causes irritation in the esophagus lining which results to inflammation that is also commonly called as heartburn.

Acid reflux among babies usually develops when they are between two to four weeks old. Doctors usually prescribe medicines that minimize the production of digestive acids. Within six to nine months, the acid reflux starts to naturally subside. At this time period, the babies spend most of their time in an upright position. This is to apply the law of gravity on the food taken in; that is, the food stays down more naturally and reduces possible regurgitation.

The following are helpful pointers on feeding and positioning of babies to lessen acid reflux:

Prepare smaller feedings recurrently. It makes sense to feed your baby more than usual but less than the accustomed. If lesser volume of milk goes into the stomach, the digestion will be faster and there will be fewer amounts of contents available for regurgitation.

Maintain the baby in an upright position after feeding. As discussed earlier, gravity helps to keep the digestive contents down. Position your baby seated in your lap while his head rests on your chest. Keep this position for at least half an hour after feeding.

Breastfeeding helps a lot. Breast milk is well-known to have many advantages over other commercial formula, mainly for babies with acid reflux. Breast milk can be digested faster, which of course lessens spitting up, and it has special enzymes that assists digestion. In addition to that, breast milk does not trigger allergy to babies compared to other milks available in the market. But for those who are formula-feeding, it is advisable to use milk with a hypoallergenic formula as advised by a doctor. Aside from having higher tolerance with sensitive intestines, hypoallergenic milk can also be digested faster by the stomach so as to minimize refluxes.

Set your baby in a comfortable position when asleep. Since when a baby lies flat when sleeping, gravity cannot help in keeping the food down in this set-up. As a result, a baby with acid reflux often has to endure a sore night waking. If a baby can sleep soundly, then there will be no need to call for a change in his habit. But some babies become restless, which can be noted by abdominal pain, acid breath, and wet burps. In this case, it is recommended to elevate the baby’s crib to about 30 degrees. This will be enough to reduce the regurgitation. You may also try to train him to sleep on his left side. It is in this position where the inlet of the stomach is higher than the exit. This will also help to keep the food down.

Keeping Pregnant Women Away From Acid Reflux Dilemma

2008-07-15T22:22:00.000+08:00

Many women tend to experience heartburn symptoms when they are still carrying their babies, and this happens for several reasons.

One of these is the increase of hormones in the women’s body while they are pregnant. The occurrence of this will result in softening the ligaments which function is to keep the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) firmly closed. When the LES rests at unsuitable periods, tendency is, this will let the gastric acid and food to reflux back to the esophagus and throat.

One more reason of experiencing heartburn during pregnancy is because the changes in the body and the development of the baby creates more pressure in the women’s stomach. Therefore, the stomach contents are forced right into the LES, and then to the esophagus.

However, there are several methods that a pregnant woman can observe to lessen the discomfort brought by heartburn. The following are good advices, although this may not remove the heartburn totally:

• Avoid the food that triggers heartburn. Examples of this are chocolates, spicy foods, citrus fruits and juices, mustard, tomatoes and tomato based products, fatty foods, fried foods, and highly seasoned dishes. Try to refer to medical specialists to know the complete list of foods to avoid Acid Reflux. Also, for foods that you may take which contains little danger of causing heartburn.

• Get rid of drinks that have caffeine, like tea, coffee, and soda. Too much of these will cause the LES to relax and let the acid to return into the esophagus.

• Stay away from alcohol beverages. This, like caffeine tends to relax the LES thus, creating the same effect—triggering heartburn.

• Avoid eating large meals. It is suggested that taking numerous small meals throughout the day will be better.

• Avoid rush in eating your meals. Chewing food thoroughly will really help in avoidance of heartburn, so better take your time in eating.

• Rest for at least three hours after having your last meal before taking your sleep.

• A pregnant woman is advised to take more glasses of water a day, at least 8 to 10 glasses, though this must be taken not just during meals. Through this, the stomach will expand, and then the LES will be given more pressure, obliging it to open inappropriately. Hence, it is really recommended to drink more water and other fluids in between meals.

• When sleeping elevate the head of the bed for at least six to eight inches. Try to sleep with an elevated head and shoulders through a wedge pillow. Through this, the gravity will work as much that it will keep the acids in your stomach in their place—in the stomach, not in the esophagus. Try to consult physicians to gain additional knowledge on how to relieve nighttime heartburn.

• Don’t wear tight fitting clothes. Tightness around the waist and stomach will trigger heartburn as it causes uneasiness.

• When bending, do it at the knees, not at the waist. This will avoid in creating too much pressure in the stomach.

• Don’t slouch; rather sit erect in a relaxing chair.

• Maintain a sensible amount of weight, too much weight and fatness will give more stress in your stomach. As a result, this will force stomach contents throughout the LES and to the esophagus. Stay with your doctors guidelines.

• Avoid smoking. Doctors stated that smoking could cause several effects to a pregnant woman, much that it can add to the possibility of experiencing heartburn.

Magnifying Acid Reflux: What Filipinos Need to Know with Acid Reflux Disease

2008-07-15T21:56:00.001+08:00

Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), the medical term for “Acid Reflux” is defined as the product of abnormal reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus thus, creating a mucosal damage, likewise known as the chronic symptom.

This disease strikes adult primarily, while infants and children can also be affected. Normally spurred by eating certain foods, if not pregnancy, or taking a sleep right after eating a heavy meal, a large number of persons suffer from acid reflux at one time or another.

Heartburn or acid indigestion is another name that refers to acid reflux. Heartburn, the major symptom of Acid Reflux in the esophagus, is described to cause a burning uneasiness at the back of the sternum.

The symptoms may come as coughing, voice transformation, hoarseness, constant ear ache, or sinusitis. The complications brought upon by acid reflux may lead to esophageal ulcers or worse this can lead to esophageal cancer.

However, constant heartburn sensations do not necessarily mean that one has captured GERD already. The risk occurs when heartburn happened more than once a week, this occasion could possibly lead in developing GERD.

The usual cause of GERD is the increase in acidity or gastric acid production in the body, obesity, pregnancy, or tight-fitting apparels, these all can add to the problem. The yeast infections are also thought to be one of the causes of GERD-like symptoms.

An added ironical cause of the GERD is the insufficient production of stomach acid in the body. The explanation says that the valve, the hollow organ with a flap that insure the one-way course of fluid through the organ, once emptied triggers acidity in the intestines. If the valve fails to open, the contents of the stomach will be blended into the esophagus, and then irritation occurs.

Meanwhile, there are already several treatments for GERD today, one of which is the balance and healthy eating habits. Now if proper diet fails to work, one can shift to medication therapy or surgery as suggested by the doctors. Below are the lists of several selections of Acid Reflux treatment:

• Proper Diet: the natural way to cure Acid Reflux is through change in their eating habits. A good number of people affected by GERD found success in following this method. Avoid the food ingredients which can intensify heart burn such as caffeine, soft drinks, and smoking. Avoid eating two hours before sleeping; likewise, avoid lying down after taking meal. These are the regular suggested change in lifestyle.

• Another easy way to treat GERD is to elevate the head of the bed. The pharmacologic therapy, the combination of prevention of food two hours before sleeping and the rise of the head of the bed, there is a great chance for a patient to gain a 95 percent relief. The rise of the head of the bed is suggested to range for only 6 to 8 inches or 20 cm. Using this method the backflow of gastric fluids will be hampered.

• Drug Treatment: Drugs reduce the secretion of the gastric acid, for instance and famotidine and omeprazole lessen the secretion of gastric acid and the Antacids counteract the acid.

• Surgical treatment: the Nissen fundoplication, the standard surgical treatment for Acid Reflux, the medication process will only cover a short period of time. The function of this is to support the sphincter, a spherical bond of muscles that opens and closes to let the food or waste to pass, as well as stop Acid Reflux, and of course restore the hiatal hernia.

Health Experts Appalled By Campaign Against Breastfeeding

2007-08-24T23:27:00.000+08:00

The Philippine Department of Health (DOH), World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) all expressed dismay over a campaign launched by private pharmaceutical companies against breastfeeding.

"We are appalled by the persistent distortion of data by the Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP)", DOH Undersecretary Alexander Padilla said. "They propagate misleading information that seriously undermines breastfeeding in the country."

The group cited press releases and paid advertisements that appeared in newspapers during the commemoration of World Breastfeeding Week. The worldwide event is the largest annual celebration of breastfeeding by advocates and is held during the first week of August.

"The timing and nature of the materials are clearly unethical and is the very reason why the new implementing rules and regulations of Executive Order 51, or the Milk Code, is all the more imperative," Padilla added.

The revised guidelines of the Milk Code impose an absolute ban on advertising, promotions, or sponsorships of breast milk substitutes.

The Supreme Court is currently studying the documents submitted by the DOH and PHAP following a much publicized oral argument last month. The materials of PHAP cited studies and data by the National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), DOH, WHO, and UNICEF that painted encouraging breastfeeding rates in the country.

From: AllHeadLineNews.com

What does the HOUSE BILL NO. 1344 contain?

2007-08-20T20:46:00.000+08:00

House Bill No. 1344 mandates all public and private schools to require their students in the elementary, secondary and tertiary levels to undergo a yearly drug test as a prerequisite for enrollment and providing penalties for violations of the said law. The test shall be undertaken under the supervision of the Department of Health.

Refusal to undergo a drug test without a justifiable cause will not be admitted to the school until he complies with the requirement under this Act.

This house bill has been approved and said to take effect upon its approval.

Php 100M for Philippine General Hospital

2007-08-17T18:40:00.000+08:00

President Macapagal-Arroyo ordered the a P100 million budget for the modernization of Philippine General Hospital (PGH). Half of the amount (P50 million) will be from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) and the other half from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. or PAGCOR.

PGH will start receiving P50 million annually from PAGCOR next year until Arroyo's term ends (on the year 2010).

The funds are being released for the hospital’s centennial anniversary which is celebrated this month. PGH was given P100 million last year for its rehabilitation program. The amount was used to acquire more medical equipment, expand hospital rooms and put up more mobile health vans.

Similar funds will also be provided to other public hospitals. Aside from modernizing public hospitals, government is also augmenting the PhilHealth insurance coverage targeting about four million indigents this year, and pushing for the passage of the cheaper medicines bill.

This is good news especially that the budget for health has been neglected these past years, allotting more on the Philippine Army. At least, it is an improvement.

Are we running out of hospitals, too?

2007-08-06T21:11:00.000+08:00

It seems that the health care crisis continues to be a problem in the Philippines. We have been running out of health manpower as nurses and doctors go abroad. It seems that we have another thing to be afraid of - the Philippines is also running out of hospitals!.

The Philippine Medical Association (PMA), based on a survey, reported that the number of hospitals, both private and public, in the country has dropped by 55 percent in the last 20 years - from a total of 2,000 in 1987 to only 890 at present.

Further, the new government policy that prevents private hospitals from "detaining" patients until they settle their hospitalization bills will worsen the situation. It may lead to bankruptcy of more hospitals which may lead to a more deteriorating health care system.

Cheaper Medicine Bill Gained Support from Lawmakers

2007-08-06T19:58:00.000+08:00

A bill aiming for a lowered price of medicines in the country has gained support among lawmakers in the House of Representatives.

At least 170 congressmen—enough to pass the bill—have thrown their support behind the measure, according to Iloilo Representative Ferjenel Biron, one of the chief proponents of the cheaper medicines bill, the Philippine Daily Inquirer reports.

Passing of the bill has unified the stand of lawmakers from both administration and opposition groups.

The House Bill No. 1, a resurrected version of the Cheaper Medicines Act of 2007, which failed to pass on third reading in the 13th Congress because of a lack of a quorum was authored by Iloilo Representative Ferjenel Biron. Accordingly, with the support gained from the congressmen, there is no reason that this bill won't be passed this time.

Acne Vulgaris (Pimples) Prevention

2006-11-07T11:59:00.000+08:00

Acne vulgaris, commonly known as “pimples”, is an inflammatory disease of the sebaceous follicles. It is a common problem among adolescents, but it could occur in adults, too. Adult acne tend to be low-grade and chronic. Aside from its physical effects, it can also bring emotional and psychological effects to a patient.

Acne is preventable, although some patients appear more predisposed to the disease, especially those with hereditary influences and taking some medications that can cause acne. Because it is a common problem, many tend to take it for granted until it worsens. Although, there are numerous acne medications available in the pharmacy, not many of them may prove useful for curing your acne. We have to bear in mind that prevention is always better than cure.

Here are some simple ways to prevent acne:

1. Wash your face regularly but avoid washing too much as it may create more damage to your skin. Washing can help remove excess oils and dead skin cells. Washing twice daily gently is all that is required.

2. Clean your face gently (without scrubbing or hard rubbing) using a gentle cleanser. Avoid using soap as much as possible because it can cause drying and breakouts. Seek a dermatologists advice on some gentle dermatological products for your skin.

3. Wash your face after exercising because sweat can clog your pores and lead to breakouts. Sweat, along with skin oils, can lead to trapped dirts and bacteria on your pores.

4. Don’t squeeze, pop or pick your acne because it might lead to irritation, infection and scarring. We have been hearing these to our parents and it appears that they are right.

5. Avoid using hair gel or spray as much as possible. These formulations contain oil that may worsen your acne. Or if you can’t live without your hair gel or spray, make sure to keep it away from your face.

6. When sleeping, try to make sure your hair isn’t in your face. Hair, according to some studies, is a good oil carrier.

7. Always use clean towels and pillowcases. Dirty towels and pillowcases may harbor bacteria and dirt, which are among the causes of acne.

8. For girls, remove your makeups when going to sleep Makeup can also lead to clogging of your pores and trapping of dirts and bacteria.

9. Avoid stress and get enough sleep. Getting enough sleep for at least 8 hours everyday can boost your immune system. We know that our immune system helps in preventing invasion of foreign materials to our body, which include bacteria.

10. Always seek your dermatologist’s advice when trying out a new skin product. Some products can have comedogenic or acnegenic effects, which means they have tendencies to cause acne.

Updates

2006-09-04T00:38:00.000+08:00

Due to time time constraints, exams and other school matters, the author decided to temporarily stop updating this site. However, to keep her aim of providing health information, she decided to post health-related problems in her blog which will also tackle with the common problems of Filipinos. Please visit her blog and lyrics site.

Updates

2006-08-16T18:25:00.000+08:00

I have been wanting to update this site but due to exams and activities in school, I had no time to research. Besides, I am planning to import this site on my new domain name. Please visit http://jammedph.com for updates. :)

Issue #2: Smoking

2006-07-30T22:13:00.000+08:00

Statistics:

Current statistics say that about 60% of Filipino men smoke and more than half of Filipino households are not smoke-free. As many as 40% of Filipino adolescent boys smoke and mostly began in their teens. Every year, there are about 20,000 smoking-related deaths in the country. Many vendors of cigarettes are children. Sadly, there are no laws prohibiting minors from buying or selling cigarettes.

Effects of Smoking:

Cardiovascular Diseases: Recent statistical studies say that smoking is the most prevalent risk factor of cardiovascular diseases including heart attack and stroke among Filipinos.

Cancer: Tobacco contains nicotine, carcinogens, and other toxins capable of causing gum disease and oral cancer. It has also been shown that incidences of cancers of the lung, larynx, esophagus, pancreas, kidney and urinary bladder are increased in smokers.

Respiratory Disease: Cigarette smoking is responsible for >90% of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Smoking induces inflammatory changes in the small airways at the early stage but after more than 20 years, pathophysiologic changes in the lungs develop and progress proportional to smoking intensity and duration.

Pregnancy: Smoking is associated with several maternal complications of pregnancy including premature rupture of membranes, placental abruption, placenta previa and several others, which all lead to fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality.

Other effects: Smoking delays healing of peptic ulcers, increases the risk of osteoporosis, results in premature menopause, wrinkling of the skin gallstone and inflammation of the gallbladder in women and male impotence.

"Quit!" or "Don’t try smoking!"

These phrases are the best ways to lessen or avoid the adverse effects of smoking. Some smokers find it harder to stop smoking because of a failure of previous attempt, concern about “withdrawal” symptoms and lack of information about the possible adverse effects of smoking. Only a third of smokers think that smoking is a risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

"Okay I will quit, but what do I get?"

Cessation of cigarette smoking reduces the risk of a second coronary event within 6-12 months after quitting, and rates of first myocardial infarction (heart attack) or death from coronary disease. After 15 years of cessation, the risk of a new myocardial infarction or death from coronary heart disease in former smokers is similar to that in those who have never smoked.

Cessation of cigarette smoking reduces the risk of developing cancer relative to continuing smoking, but even 20 years after cessation there is a modest persistent increased risk of developing lung cancer.

Changes in the small airways of young smokers will reverse after 1 to 2 years of cessation. There is a slowing of the rate of decline in lung function with advancing age rather than a return of lung function toward normal.

"I am a non-smoker; does this mean I will not be affected?"

Long-term exposure to environmental tobacco smoke increases the risk of lung cancer and coronary heart disease among nonsmokers. It also increases the incidence of respiratory infection and asthma in children. But at least your risk of developing these diseases is lower compared to smokers.

This means that the drive for cessation of smoking should be everybody’s concern. Awareness to the several adverse effects of smoking must begin in as early as the elementary school years.

Simple coping-after-quitting tips:

1. Exercise: It will serve as an outlet and can drive you away from temptations. Further, it can make you feel better about yourself.
2. Chewing gums: Use it as an alternative to put into your mouth.
3. Avoidance: Avoid smoking areas and smokers. If it is impossible to do so, just think of the reasons why you should stop smoking. At least, it will strengthen your resistance against temptation.
4. Always brush your teeth after every meal. Use mouthwash often to keep your mouth fresh.

Issue #1: Breast Cancer

2006-07-29T17:36:00.000+08:00

Overview:

Breast cancer is a malignant proliferation of epithelial cells linking the ducts or lobules of the breast. It is the most common cause of cancer in women, excluding skin cancer. It is a hormone-dependent disease so that women without functiong ovaries who never receive estrogen replacement do not develop breast cancer.

Epidemiology:

Risk Factors

Age - The risk of getting breast cancer increases with age but incidence begins to decline beginning at the age of menopause. The three dates in a woman's life that have a major impact on breast cancer are age at menarche, age at first full-term pregnancy and age at menopause. Women who experience menarche at age 16 have only 50-60% of the breast cancer risk of a woman having menarche (first menstruation) at age of 12; the lower risk persists throughout life. Similarly, menopause occuring 10 years before the median age of menopause (52 years), whether natural or surgically induced, reduces risk of breast cancer by about 35%. Women who have a first full-term pregnancy by age 18 have a reduced (30-40%) risk of breast cancer compared with nulliparous (or women who never experienced pregnancy) women
Race - Asian women have a lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to Caucasians. It is said that Asian women have substantially lower concentrations of estrogens and progesterone.
Diet - Its role to breast cancer etiology is still controversial. While there are associative links between total caloric and fat intake and breast cancer risk, the exact role of fat in the diet is uproven. Obesity and breast cancer have been closely linked with.
Alcohol intake - There is a risk associated with alcohol intake but the mechanism is still unknown. Some studies say that "Two drinks daily increase the risk of getting breast cancer by about 25 percent."
Radiation - It may increase the risk in younger women. Women who have been exposed to radiation before age 30 have an increased risk whereas exposure after age 30 appears to have a minimal carcinogenic effect on the breast.
Heredity - It has been implied in many studies that genetics play an important role in breast cancer etiology.

Signs and Symptoms:

Early breast cancer causes no symptoms and is not painful. Usually breast cancer is discovered before any symptoms are present, either on mammography or by feeling a breast lump. A lump under the arm or above the collarbone that does not go away may be present. Other possible symptoms include breast discharge, nipple inversion and changes in the skin overlying the breast.

Screening for Breast Cancer:

Screening procedures have been recommended by doctors for early detection of breast cancer. This includes breast self exam and mammography.

Breast Self Exam:

Women are strongly encouraged to examine their breasts monthly.

Timing: It is done monthly, 7 to 10 days after the first day of your menstrual period. If you are not menstruating, you perform it same day every month.

How to do it?

A multimedia presentation of performing breast self examination can be viewed in Komen.org.

Mammography:

Screening mammography has reduced the lethality of breast cancer by promoting detection at an earlier stage. The procedure is justified on an annual basis for women over age 40.

Treatment:

Surgical therapy: Depending on the staging and type of the tumor, just a lumpectomy (removal of the lump only) may be all that is necessary or removal of larger amounts of breast tissue may be necessary. Surgical removal of the entire breast is called mastectomy.

Chemotherapy: Unlike many other epithelial malignancies, breast cancer responds to several chemotherapeutic agents, including anthracyclines, alkylating agents, taxanes, and antimetabolites.

Systemic therapy: This is the use of medications to treat cancer cells throughout the body. It is used for metastatic breast cancer.

Radiation therapy: This is used after surgical removal of the breast tumor. This uses X-rays or gamma rays which are very effective in destroying the cancer cells that might recur where the tumor was removed.

Prognosis (Outcome):

The higher the stage at the time of diagnosis, the worse the prognosis of breast cancer is. This is where the importance of early screening for breast cancer comes important.

Breast Cancer in Males:

Yes, males can have breast cancers but of much lesser incidence than female breast cancer. The male to female ratio is 1:150. It usually presents as a unilateral lump in the breast and is frequently not diagnosed promptly. When male breast cancer is matched to female breast cancer by age and stage, its overall prognosis is identical.

Reference:

Braunwald, E., et al., Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 2001. The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breast_cancer

http://www.infobreastcancer.ca/bse2.htm

http://www.komen.org/bse/

About this site

2006-07-29T14:23:00.000+08:00

This website aims to provide simple explanations of the diseases commonly encountered by us, Filipinos. The etiology or causes, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, management, prevention, and prognosis will be discussed here.

Comments are welcomed.