Many Filipinos suffer from non-communicable diseases (NDCs). These are illnesses that aren't directly transmitted from one person to another. The top NCDs among Filipinos are cancer, cardiovascular disease, pneumonia, and stroke.
In one of AXA's “What's Your Game Plan?” webinars, Dr. Rachael Rosario, executive director of the Philippine Cancer Society, said that NCDs account for 15 million premature deaths among people aged between 30 and 69 years. In the Philippines, the top four NCDs are cancer, cardiovascular disease, pneumonia, and stroke, with 141,021 Filipinos developing cancer every year, according to Dr. Rosario.
The good news, though, is you can give yourself a fighting chance against NCDs, starting with the following tips:
Many Filipinos have developed a sedentary lifestyle as millions stayed at home at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, which increased our risk for NCDs. According to the World Health Organization, the lack of physical activity is the fourth leading cause of global mortality.
To avoid this, get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (e.g., brisk walking, light gardening) or 75 minutes of intense aerobic activity per week (e.g., jogging, hiking uphill). You can also do a combination of both. Aside from lowering your risk for NCDs, other benefits include helping you lose weight and improving your mood.
- Get checked regularly. NCDs may sometimes seem to come out of nowhere. To avoid being blindsided, get regular checkups, especially as you get older or have a family history of NCDs. Annual checkups can help keep your health on track, prevent diseases, or control them early on.
- Get insured. No one knows what the future holds, so it's always good to be prepared for life's surprises. Having a health plan is one way to do this. It's a form of insurance that will pay for your medical treatment when you get sick or injured. Having a comprehensive health plan can protect you and your family from any financial burdens when hit with health uncertainties.
Get peace of mind with AXA health insurance
AXA Philippines makes getting health insurance in the Philippines as simple as possible. Kick-start your health journey with Health Start Lite. This starter health insurance plan covers the Top 3 NCDs and early-stage critical conditions at an affordable price. Health Start Lite also includes teleconsultation and mental health counseling services. It’s time to stay health-ready.
All in all, living a healthy lifestyle, getting regular checkups, and having a health plan will help you be well-prepared against NCDs.
Know you can game plan your way to better face life's uncertainties. Contact an AXA financial advisor to learn more about AXA Philippines' health insurance plans.
