Coronary Heart Disease in the Philippines: Risks, Initiatives, and Future Considerations

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with coronary heart disease (CHD) ranking among the top causes of death and disability in the Philippines over the past decade. Understanding the risk factors and pre[1]vention strategies within the Filipino cultural context is crucial for improving public health outcomes. Methods: A literature review was conducted to assess CHD risk factors and evaluate current public health measures in the Philippines. The review examined both modifiable and unmodifiable risk factors, as well as cultural influences on CHD prev[1]alence and prevention. Results: The study identified common unmodifiable CHD risk factors in the general population and highlighted the impact of modifiable risk factors within the Filipino cultural framework, including lifestyle, mental health, and environmental factors. Governmental, community, and medical organization initiatives aimed at addressing these risks have been implemented, but their effectiveness remains unclear. Conclusion: These results emphasize the need for strengthened public health initiatives in the Philippines to increase awareness of CHD risk factors and improve prevention strategies. Future efforts should prioritize culturally tailored interventions, such as risk assessment tools, educational campaigns, and enhanced access to primary healthcare services. A comprehensive, culturally sensitive approach could significantly reduce CHD prevalence and improve overall public health in the Philippines.