DOH tallies lower non-communicable disease cases this holiday

The Department of Health (DOH) reported only 75 cases of non-communicable diseases recorded during the 2025 holiday season, covering the period from December 21 (Sunday) to 4:59 a.m. of 24 December (Wednesday).

During the period, the DOH recorded 18 new cases involving stroke, heart attacks, and asthma.

Data from the health department showed that patients aged 60 to 69 accounted for 14 of the 25 acute coronary syndrome cases and 15 of the 45 acute stroke cases. Meanwhile, children aged 0 to 9 comprised four of the nine recorded bronchial asthma cases.

The DOH also reported two deaths related to stroke and acute coronary syndrome during the monitoring period.

Overall, the number of recorded cases was 38 percent lower compared to the same period last year, according to the health bureau.

To help prevent non-communicable diseases during the holidays, the DOH issued several reminders.

For acute coronary syndrome, the public was advised to avoid excessive eating, smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress, and to seek immediate medical attention in cases of shortness of breath or chest pain.

To reduce the risk of acute stroke, the DOH urged individuals to maintain normal blood pressure levels, engage in regular physical activity, and seek immediate help if they experience numbness or weakness in any part of the body.

To prevent asthma attacks, the DOH advised avoiding triggers such as dust and smoke, keeping the environment clean and tidy, and ensuring inhalers and maintenance medicines are readily available in case of emergencies.