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200 hospitals shut down on doctors and nurses lack

by Macon Ramos-Araneta; Manila Standard Today, March 10, 2010

BRAIN drain or the loss of skilled intellectual and technical employees has plagued government and private hospitals in the last two years, causing the permanent closure of 200 institutions across the country and the partial shut down of another 800.

The partial closures meant that one to two hospital wards had stopped operating in the absence of doctors and nurses, who left for better geographic, economic or professional environments.

Former Health Secretary Jaime Galvez Tan, who served under the administration of former President Fidel Ramos, said in an interview that hospitals were forced to cease operations as doctors and nurses were no longer interested to work for them.

Hospitals affected by the migration of health workers, particularly nurses and doctors, are in the remote countryside where health care is badly needed, according to Tan.

Among the hospitals that closed were the Almagro Community Hospital in Western Samar, the Tapul Municipal Hospital, Tangkil Municipal Hospital, Pangutaran District Hospital, Siasi District Hospital and Panamao District Hospital in Sulu, and the Sergio Osmena District Hospital in Zamboanga del Norte.

“In Sulu, majority of the municipalities have only one doctor. The municipalities of Pata, Talipao, Lugus and Pandami have no doctors at all,” Tan said.

Partially closed were the Calbayog District Hospital, Gandara District Hospital, Basey District Hospital and Tarangnan District Hospital in Western Samar, the Malipayon District Hospital, San Jose District Hospital and San Andres District Hospital in Romblon, and the Jolo Provincial Hospital.

So far no hospital, private or government-run, has shut down in Metro Manila and the well-off provinces of Davao and Cebu because of the brain drain, Tan said. Health workers prefer to work for well-known hospitals that are popular among patients.

“Andito kasi ang pera at resources. Kaya nga may overflow ng health workers at pasyente sa mga ospital na ito (Here is where the money and the resources are. That is why there is an overflowing of health workers and patients in these hospitals),” Tan said.

But when one goes to Samar and other poor provinces, like Kalinga Apayao, Mindoro, Sulu and Agusan, and in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao and the Caraga Administrative Region, one can find areas with no hospitals, he said.

The latest statistics available from the health department and the National Statistics Office showed the majority of doctors and nurses are concentrated in the National Capital Region and in Region 4-A or the Southern Tagalog. As of 2007, there were 125,899 doctors and 5,426 nurses in the capital and 75,213 nurses and 3,876 doctors in Region 4-A.

In the ARMM there were 4,058 nurses and 2,726 doctors, and in Caraga were 8,854 nurses and 232 doctors. These were the regions with the least numbers of health workers.

Tan said all the hospitals that closed were licensed. “There is no such thing as fly-by-night hospitals, because before a hospital can operate it must have authority from the DOH, and accreditation from the Philippine Health Insurance.”

Posted in Announcement, Commentary, MEDIA: Print, MIND Movement, Philippine Healthcare Issues.

DZRH Radio Program, Featured Doctors for Jan-Feb 2010

Dear Friends, we would to invite you to listen or watch our latest radio program at DZRH, the country’s number one radio station.
Our show, called “Doc on Call,” airs every Saturday 5:00 – 5:30 P.M at DZRH radio (666 in the AM band).
The show is hosted by Docs Willie and Liza Ong.

During the program, we’ll be tackling some interesting health topics, to help our listeners become more proactive in their health.
Our DZRH program can also be seen live via the internet (DZRH.tripod.com) and through Dream Cable TV and Cable link TV.

Here are some of our featured doctor-guests for January to February of 2010:

TOPIC: “Pagbubuntis at Panganganak” (How pregnant women should care for themselves. What foods to eat and what kind of check-ups they need.)
FEATURED GUEST: Dr. Pete Crisostomo, Past Chairman, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, De La Salle College of Medicine (De La Salle - Health Science Institute)
Dr. Pete Crisostomo - OB-GYN

TOPIC: “Sakit ng mga bata” (Children’s diseases, vaccination and first-aid for kids.)
FEATURED GUESTS: Dr. Sandra Litao, Past Chairman, Department of Pediatrics, De La Salle College of Medicine, and
Dr. Joan De Castro, Pediatrics consultant, University Medical Center (UMC) Hospital.
Dr. Joan De Castro and Dr. Sandra Litao

TOPIC: “Sakit sa Goiter” (Thyroid diseases, thyroid masses and its prevention and treatment.)
FEATURED GUESTS: Dr. Roy Cuison, UST Consultant, Thyroid Expert and Book Author, and
Dr. Benigno Ong, Thyroid Expert and Awards Committee Member of the Philippine Medical Association (PMA).
Dr. Benigno Ong and Dr. Roy Cuison

Thank you very much for sharing your time and expertise to DZRH’s millions of listeners. God bless.

Posted in Announcement.

The Yogurt Effect: Fighting Disease In a Powerful Way

Dr. Willie T. Ong, The Philippine STAR, March 2, 2010

Have you tried eating yogurt? Yogurt, one of the world’s healthiest foods, is actually made from fermented milk. Yogurt is regarded by experts as a complete food, having the perfect combination of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Yogurt has calcium for the bones, potassium for the muscles, and vitamin B for the nerves.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, a cup of regular yogurt (100 grams or 3.5 ounces) gives the following nutritional values: 61 calories, 4.7 grams (g) of carbohydrates, 3.5 g of protein, 4.7 g of sugars, 3.3 g of fat, 121 mg of calcium, 250 mg of potassium, 16 mg of magnesium and the B vitamins.
But more than your regular milk, yogurt has the added health value of probiotics, the good bacteria our body needs, such as your lactobacilli. Let us look at the possible ways yogurt can help us:

1. For those who can’t tolerate milk.
A substantial number of Asians (including me) can’t tolerate milk. Some people have trouble digesting milk proteins and the sugar lactose in milk. They develop bloating and diarrhea. As an alternative, eating a cup of yogurt a day doesn’t give the same unwanted effects.
According to Dr. John Briffa, a London physician, columnist and nutrition expert, yogurt is less likely to cause an upset stomach for two reasons. First, the healthy bacteria used to make yogurt helps in partially digesting the milk proteins. Second, these friendly bacteria also digest the sugar lactose, converting it to lactic acid. Thus, yogurt contains less of these diarrhea-inducing components.

2. May help prevent stomach cancer, ulcer and colon cancer.
Dr. John Briffa writes that the healthy bacteria in yogurt have the potential to help people with stomach ulcer, food poisoning, constipation, diarrhea and other bowel-related problems. The presence of good bacteria in yogurt somehow helps ward off and displace the bad bacteria.
One such annoying bug is called Helicobacter pylori, an organism that is known to cause stomach ulcers. A Taiwan study showed that two probiotics in yogurt, lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, helped treat patients with ulcers, who are taking medicines to treat Helicobacter pylori infection .

3. For strengthening the immune system.
Several studies have shown that yogurt assists our immune system. A breakthrough study by Dr. Georges M. Halpern of the University of California School of Medicine showed that eating two cups of yogurt a day for four months can increase our body’s gamma interferon (substances fighting infections) by five times. Dr. Halpern and colleagues found that those yogurt with specific live active cultures (containing Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus) boosted interferon levels.
In addition, a one-year follow-up study by Dr. Halpern showed that eating 6 ounces of yogurt a day can help prevent colds, hay fever and diarrhea. And if ever the patients developed a cold, the symptoms were less troublesome.
Yet another research done on elderly people showed a significant reduction in the duration of illness (including gastrointestinal and respiratory illness) in those taking yogurt. Because of its effect on the immune system, yogurt is believed to be beneficial too in patients with allergy, various cancers, and HIV-AIDS.

4. For those taking antibiotics, especially children.
Whenever you take antibiotics, it’s a common-sense idea to take a cup of yogurt every day. Although antibiotics are extremely helpful medicines, they can sometimes destroy the good bacteria along with the bad bacteria. Some experts believe that eating yogurt will help replace the good bacteria that may have been destroyed by the antibiotic. One study suggests that eating certain probiotics (named L. casei, L. bulgaricus, and S. thermophilus) can also reduce the incidence of diarrhea, a possible side effect caused by taking antibiotics.

5. To help prevent osteoporosis.
We know that both calcium and vitamin D play a major role in preventing osteoporosis. And since a cup of yogurt contains 12% of our daily calcium needs, this can help protect our bones. Check the labels because some yogurt preparations are made with added vitamin D. Other food sources with Vitamin D include eggs and sardines. Early morning sunshine also helps our bodies produce vitamin D.

6. To help treat vaginal yeast infection.
Symptoms of this common vaginal infection (called candida) are itchiness and the presence of a whitish discharge in the vaginal area. Doctors usually prescribe an anti-fungal suppository for 7 days. Aside from medications, experts suggest eating a cup of yogurt for 5 days to help replenish the healthy lactobacillus in the body. One study reported that women who take a cup of yogurt a day had less vaginal yeast infection and less urinary tract infection (UTI). Yogurt researcher Dr. Georges Halpern believes that yogurt is especially beneficial for women, “Yogurt boosts immunity, delivers lots of available calcium and helps prevent vaginitis.”

7. To help treat canker sores (locally called singaw).
Canker sores are small, shallow and painful lesions inside the mouth. It’s not contagious but it can make eating and talking very painful. It usually starts with a small injury (from teeth braces, accidental biting and abrasion from the teeth).
From my own experience, Ear, nose, throat specialist Dr. Elmer De La Cruz advised me to eat yogurt. According to Dr. De La Cruz, yogurt is particularly helpful because it coats all of the painful sores, even in places where it is hard to reach, like the throat and inner gums. I tried it and it’s a great relief. One technique is to take in 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt every hour or two, so as to cover the canker sores and hasten its healing.

8. To help you lose weight.
Compared with regular ice cream, yogurt has fewer calories, less fat and less sugar. A small cup of yogurt yields only around 70 calories. In fact, a small study from the University of Washington in Seattle showed that eating yogurt makes one feel fuller and less hungry, when compared to drinking fruit juices and other sugary drinks. So it pays to indulge in yogurt instead.

Some final tips when buying yogurt. First, you may choose the low-fat or fat-free variety. Second, make sure also that your yogurt has “live and active cultures,” which means that it has the healthy bacteria inside. Third, be sure it’s not yet expired.
And so, if you want to be healthy, many experts will agree: Have some yogurt today.

Posted in Health Tips/Advice, MEDIA: Print, Philippine STAR, Column.

Brother Gus Boquer: Doing God’s Work in Cavite

by Dr. Willie T. Ong, The Philippine STAR, February 13, 2010

Photobucket

Ever wonder how the saints walked and lived in the olden times? Last month, we got a glimpse of how a living saint may sound like during the 23rd Anniversary of the De La Salle Health Science Institute (DLS-HSI).

Brother Gus Boquer, a prime mover for various De La Salle Institutions, spoke during the event. “A few days ago, a Lasallian brother was nominated for sainthood. The brother had no special qualities. He did not perform any outstanding feat. He just did ordinary things in an extraordinary way.” Brother Gus continued, “And so, if you use the talents God gave you and if you do it well, then you, too, could be a saint.”

Starting 2007, Brother Gus has been appointed president of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas and De La Salle-Health Sciences Institute (DLS-HSI). Since then, many buildings and projects have been established for the betterment of the students and patients in Cavite.

For Charity Patients and Students:

Since he started, Brother Gus has pegged lofty and near impossible dreams for himself. First, Brother Gus wants to create more charity beds in the De La Salle-University Medical Center (DLS-UMC Hospital), until it reaches 100 charity beds. So far there are 50 semi-charity beds subsidized by the hospital.

Second, Brother Gus hopes to find sponsors to fund scholarships to intelligent but financially-handicapped students who want to become doctors or nurses. Brother Gus’ goal is to have 1 full scholar for every 5 students in the De La Salle student population. So far, with God’s help, Brother Gus already has 15 medical scholars and 97 nursing scholars. This is a near miracle since it costs around P100,000 to sponsor one medical scholar for one year.

Brother Gus shares an inspiring story, “I believe doctors are doing God’s work. The way they help the sick and put a smile on a poor patient never fails to amaze me. We have a doctor here in De La Salle, Dr. Romeo P. Ariniego, who has pledged to give his life’s earning to De La Salle. He has already given 10 million pesos for a new library. And he has already donated his house and lot to De La Salle Institute, which will take effect after he passes away. How can you not be amazed by doctors like this?”

In addition to charity beds and medical scholars, Brother Gus has recently acquired equipments from the United States to open a cardiac catheterization laboratory in DLSU-UMC hospital. This year, he will be going to Maryland where he hopes to find connections to establish a Breast Cancer Center here.

Bahay Pag-asa:

Before being asked to lead in De La Salle, Cavite, Brother Gus had been a successful 8-year President of DLSU Bacolod City. For 18 years, Brother Gus had stayed in Bacolod City where he started his Bahay Pag-asa Youth Center. The offenders were aged 15 to 21, charged with assault, rape or murder.

In an interview posted at DLSU’s website, Brother Gus said, “There are children with cases in jail. Nobody wants them. Even their parents don’t want them. And so, we start their lives again to [help them] become productive members of the society.”
Now that he is in Cavite, Brother Gus has built a new Bahay Pag-asa in the area. He is still looking for kind-hearted sponsors to help give these young offenders the proper environment to get them back on the right track.

Recognition for Good Works:

With humility, Brother Gus says that he is just an instrument, and it is God who is doing the work through him. In 1996, the Government of the US Territory of Guam conferred upon him the highest award that a non-native of Guam can receive, the Ancient Order of the Chamorri. In 2006, he was given an honorary doctoral degree in Educational Leadership by the St. Mary’s University in Minnesota, USA.

Locally, he has been given a commendation by the Negros Occidental Sangguniang Panlalawigan for his work for the poor.

Looking for Partners:

On his job as a spiritual leader and a fund-raiser, Brother Gus says, “I am not ashamed to ask for help because the money I am asking for is not for me but for the poor. If you could only see the work that we are doing here, I’m sure people will start to give.”

Brother Gus beams, “I have always believed that the best time to give is when it is hardest to give. Because during those times, the blessings you will receive will be double.”

If you would like to help Brother Gus Boquer in his work for the poor, you may reach him at telephone number 988-3100 local 1000 or 1600 (Secretary Cely Pila), or e-mail at mbpila@dlshsi.edu.ph

Posted in Announcement, Inspirational Articles, MEDIA: Print, Philippine STAR Charity, Operation Damayan, Philippine STAR, Column.

Erratum: Typo Errors in Published Article

In the previous article entitled “How to handle 9 common emergencies,” published at The Philippine STAR last February 2, 2010, there were typographical errors in the preparation of oral rehydrating solution for diarrhea. I have no idea how it happened. There could have been unforseen errors in the re-typing of the article.

Thank you very much to renowned pediatrician and gastroenterologist Dr. Arturo Ludan for pointing out the correct mixture of an oral rehydration solution.

The correct mixture is as follows.

1. Diarrhea.
The first aid for diarrhea is giving Oresol or an oral rehydrating solution, which you can buy in a drugstore. Actually, you can make your own rehydrating solution as follows: Mix 1 glass of water (250cc) with 2 teaspoons of sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir well and drink as much as you can. Children or adults can also be fed rice water (“am”) with a little salt added. These liquids help replenish the fluids and electrolytes lost in the stools. Doctors also recommend the BRAT diet, which stands for banana, rice, apple and tea. However, if the patient cannot drink or eat anymore, it’s time to bring him or her to the hospital where doctors will give fluids through the vein. A common cause of diarrhea is intake of spoiled or contaminated food.

Posted in Announcement, Philippine STAR, Column.

How To Handle Common Medical Emergencies

Dr. Willie T. Ong, The Philippine STAR, February 2, 2010

Imagine receiving a call saying that a family member is sick. What should you do? What’s the first aid in this situation? During emergencies, it pays to be knowledgeable in basic home remedies and first aid. Let’s look at 9 common problems:

1. Diarrhea.
The first aid for diarrhea is giving Oresol or an oral rehydrating solution, which you can buy in a drugstore. Actually, you can make your own rehydrating solution as follows: Mix 1 glass of water with 2 teaspoons of sugar and a pinch of salt. Stir well and drink as much as you can. Children or adults can also be fed rice water (“am”) with a little salt added. These liquids help replenish the fluids and electrolytes lost in the stools. Doctors also recommend the BRAT diet, which stands for banana, rice, apple and tea. However, if the patient cannot drink or eat anymore, it’s time to bring him or her to the hospital where doctors will give fluids through the vein. A common cause of diarrhea is intake of spoiled or contaminated food.

2. Minor Burns.
This is important. Once a person gets burned, for example a hand burn from boiling water, immediately place the burned area in anything cold. You can expose the hand to running water, or better yet, you can submerge the hand in a bucket of iced water. The cold water will counteract the heat generated from the burned area and will thereby minimize the skin and tissue damage. You don’t need to put tomatoes, toothpaste or what have you. It’s not helpful. Later, once the heat from the area subsides, you can apply burn ointment on the affected part. Then cover the skin with a clean gauze. Afterwards, the burned area will usually develop into a blister. Do not poke the blister or it might get infected. Just leave it alone and let it subside by itself. For more serious burns, however, you should go to an emergency room for further treatment.

3. Object inside ear or nose.
This usually happens with kids. The safest thing to do is to bring the kid to the Emergency Room or an ENT specialist. Take note: Do not attempt to remove the foreign object on your own. Do not poke cotton buds or toothpicks inside the ear. You will only push the object further inside and you might even puncture the eardrum. Likewise, don’t force the kid to sneeze the object out. Just keep your child calm. This is one time you really need to see your doctor.

4. Swallowed object.
If the swallowed object is small, like a button or a bead, the doctor will just ask the parents to observe the child for symptoms, such as stomach ache or difficulty of breathing. Normally, the child will pass out the swallowed object with the stools in 1 to 2 days. However, when the swallowed object is large or pointed, it’s best to bring him to the hospital. The doctor will probably request for an x-ray to see where the object is located. Follow your doctor’s advice.

5. Foreign body in the eye.
In case of dust and foreign objects in your eye, the first thing to do is to wash the eye in running water. Don’t scrub your eye, but just let the water wash out the object. Hopefully, this will do the trick. If an eyelash gets into the eye, just blink your eyes several times, and slowly your tears will transport the object outside. In some special cases, an experienced person can use a cotton bud to remove the object. But if the foreign body is still there after some time, it is best to see an eye specialist.

6. Insect bite from mosquitoes, ants or bed bugs.
First, clean the bite area with soap and water. Then, get a piece of ice and place it on the bite area. This should lessen the itchiness and redness. Next, you can dab the area regularly with 70% rubbing alcohol or povidone iodine. Keep the area clean until it heals. Avoid the urge to scratch the area because you might injure the skin and infect the area.

7. Nose bleeding.
Especially common during the hot weather, most cases of nose bleeding are
harmless and nothing to worry about. At times, picking the nose can cause nose bleeding. When bleeding occurs, let the patient sit down and tilt the head slightly upward. Then firmly pinch on the top part of the nose to see if this will stop the bleeding. You may also place an ice bag on the bridge of the nose to help the blood clot more quickly. In the meantime, keep the patient calm and let him breath slowly through the mouth. Usually, the bleeding will stop in a few minutes. However, in case it doesn’t, go to the Emergency Room.

8. Bump in the head.
If your child bumps his head, let the child lie down and then place an ice bag on the affected area to lessen the swelling. In cases where there is some bleeding in the area, it is best to clean the area with Povidone iodine or alcohol. (I prefer Povidone iodine because it is more potent and less painful.) Next, place a clean gauze on the area. Most head bumps are harmless since our hard skull protects our brain. However, patients should still be observed for drowsiness, vomiting or severe headache in the next few days. For more serious bumps, you can proceed to a hospital where doctors might request a head x-ray (to check for fracture) or a CT Scan of the head (to check for bleeding).

9. Bite from dog, cat or rat.
Immediately wash the bite area with soap and running water. There’s no harm in pinching the area to try and squeeze out blood and saliva from the animal. After cleaning the area, apply Povidone iodine to further sterilize it. Then place a clean gauze over the area. For dog bites, the animal should be observed for 10 days. If the dog is healthy after 10 days, then that means the dog has no rabies. Finally, for more serious bites, like deep animal bites and those bites near the neck area, you should bring the patient to the hospital for anti-tetanus shots and possibly anti-rabies shots. Good luck!

Posted in Health Tips/Advice, MEDIA: Print, Philippine STAR, Column.

Learning the ABC’s of High Blood Pressure

Dr. Willie T. Ong, The Philippine STAR, January 5, 2010

Q. I have had high blood pressure for 10 years. My blood pressure is 170 over 100. I have seen many doctors already but they cannot bring my blood pressure down. (Romy)

A. Don’t worry, you are not alone. There are approximately 20% of adults suffering from high blood pressure. For the treatment of this condition, there are currently 162 drugs in the market and thousands of combination treatments possible. So what’s the best treatment for you? Well, if you read on, you’ll find that the answer is really as simple as your ABC’s.

Who Has High Blood Pressure?

It is true that an occasional rise in blood pressure (BP), say during heavy exercise or extreme stress, usually does not warrant a label of hypertension. A person is said to be hypertensive if he or she has persistent elevations of BP, which is a systolic blood pressure greater than or equal to 140 mm Hg (millimeters mercury) or a diastolic blood pressure of more than or equal to 90 mm Hg.

For classification purposes, a person has mild hypertension if the systolic BP is between 140 to 159 mm Hg or the diastolic BP is between 90 to 99 mm Hg. These cases may still respond to a change in lifestyle: (a) lose weight and exercise, (b) reduce salt and fat intake and (c) stop smoking and limit alcohol intake.

By contrast, the more serious label of moderate to severe hypertension refers to a systolic BP higher than 160 mm Hg or a diastolic BP greater than 100 mm Hg. These critical elevations of blood pressure make one susceptible to a stroke or a heart attack, hence treatment with medications are needed.
What causes high blood pressure? For 95% of people, there is no specific cause, meaning it’s genetic and handed down to you by your parents. Hence, it cannot be cured, only controlled with medications.

What Are The Drugs For High Blood Pressure?

The major four classes of drugs used for high blood pressure begins with the letters A, B, C and D.

A stands for ace-inhibitors. Their generic names end with the common syllable “–pril,” for example, Enalapril. Ace-inhibitors are a must for hypertensive patients with diabetes or heart failure. Of course, people’s bodies respond differently and some, around 5-10%, develop side effect of cough.
Should one develop cough, then the angiotensin receptor blockers are good alternatives. The ARB’s, as they are called, end with the syllable “–sartan,” for example, Losartan.

In certain cases, doctors prefer the B’s for beta-blockers. These drugs end with “–olol,” such as metoprolol (brand name Betaloc) or atenolol. Why are beta-blockers so popular? Well, in addition to having multiple benefits – treatment of high blood pressure, heart attack, angina, palpitations and migraine - they are also cheap. However, virile middle-aged men fear that it may jeopardize their sexual performance. As one patient says, “Betaloc for me? Betta luck next time, Doc!”

Next, we have the C’s for calcium antagonists. They are the most powerful drugs at the doctor’s disposal, and they usually end with the syllable “–pine.” Calcium antagonists can reduce very high levels of BP and mind you, won’t affect the men’s sexual prowess. The most widely prescribed calcium antagonists are Amlodipine and Felodipine.

Last but not least, we have the D’s for diuretics. Surprisingly, recent studies have shown that they may be as beneficial as the more expensive calcium antagonists. Locally, we have Hydrocholorothiazide 25 mg tablets.
For those who prefer alternative options, there is sambong and raw garlic. However, these have unpredictable and weak results. Hence, I don’t rely on them alone.

What’s The Most Powerful Drug? The Cheapest Drug?

As a cardiologist, I believe that the most powerful and reliable drug of all, is amlodipine (a calcium antagonist). This medicine can lower even the most stubborn high blood pressure. It has a long half life of 35 hours, which means it exerts its beneficial effects for two days. Amlodipine 5 mg, taken once daily, is effective for those with moderate to severe high blood pressure. The dose can go as high as 10 mg a day. An uncommon side effect is leg swelling (2-3% of patients), in which case we can lower the dose of Amlodipine or shift to another drug. A generic equivalent of Amlodipine is now available at only P6.50 a day.

As mentioned, the cheapest drug for high blood pressure (although not as powerful as Amlodipine) is Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg given at half tablet or one tablet a day. This cost only between 4-5 pesos per tablet (usual brand name of Hytaz or Diuzid). Elderly patients respond well to low doses of diuretics but we just have to watch out for potassium depletion. So if you’re taking diuretics, take two bananas a day just to be safe.

How long should one take these drugs? As mentioned, mild cases of high blood pressure may still respond with a change in lifestyle. But for more severe cases, treatment is for life. But don’t worry, these drugs will really help you live much longer, up to 5-10 years more. Trust me, it’s good for you.

Posted in Health Tips/Advice, MEDIA: Print, Philippine STAR, Column.

Are Sardines Healthy? You Bet!

Dr. Willie T. Ong, The Philippine STAR, January 19, 2010

Some people look down on the lowly sardines. It’s cheap, it’s canned and it’s the poor man’s diet. Hence, it’s easy to conclude that sardines are not healthy for you. However, medical and nutrition experts agree that such is not the case. In fact, sardines are pound-for-pound one of the world’s healthiest foods.

Sardines are a group of small oily fish related to herrings. Years ago, sardines were harvested off the coast of Sardinia, an Island in the Mediterranean. Sardines contain vitamins and minerals proven to benefit your heart, memory, skin, joints, and give you energy. Here’s why sardines are good for you:

1. Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Sardines are rich in healthy Omega 3 fats, which help increase your good cholesterol and prevent heart attack and stroke. Omega 3 also nourishes the skin and prevents wrinkle formation.

2. Coenzyme Q10: Sardines have high levels of Coenzyme Q10, a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen one’s immune system.

3. Calcium: The calcium in sardines keeps your bones strong and healthy. If you exercise regularly, like brisk walking, this can help strengthen your bones and prevent osteoporosis. Three ounces (one serving) of sardines gives as much calcium as a glass of milk, especially if you eat the soft edible bones.

4. Vitamin D: Sardines are one of the few food sources that contain vitamin D, in fact, thrice your daily requirements. This vitamin works to help the body absorb calcium in food and promote bone growth.

5. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) and Vitamin B3 (niacin): The B vitamins are very important for a healthy nervous system, which includes the peripheral nerves, spinal cord and brain. Adequate intake of Vitamin B12 helps boost energy and produce normal blood cells.

6. Selenium: Sardines are a good source of the mineral selenium, a powerful antioxidant. Some studies have linked selenium intake to a lower risk for cancer.

7. Iron and Phosphorus: A serving of sardines contain 20% of our daily iron needs. Iron is needed for red blood cell production and for people who are anemic. Moreover, sardines contain phosphorus, a mineral that helps the kidney excrete waste products. Phosphorus is also needed for normal teeth and bones.

8. For weight control: For overweight people, one advantage of sardines is that it is low in calories. In addition, sardines are rich in protein, which can be used by dieters on a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet. Getting your protein from fish is much healthier than eating pork and beef, laden with fats.

9. Safe to eat because they’re low in mercury: Because of our polluted waters, certain kinds of fish may contain varying amounts of mercury, a poison that is harmful to the brain, nerves, kidneys, eyes and other organs. The US Food and Drug Administration has certified that sardines contain one of the lowest levels of mercury in seafood. This is mainly due to the sardines’ main diet of plankton and krill. (This is in contrast with sharks and other large fishes with higher mercury levels because they eat other fishes.) Aside from sardines, other fish which are low in mercury are samaral, dilis (anchovies), hito (catfish), galunggong (mackerel), salmon, tilapia and bangus (milkfish). Seafood such as shrimp, squid and crab are also safe. As a general rule, the smaller fish, preferably those less than 12 inches long, are safer.

Sardine’s Nutritional Values:
A small can or 3 ounces of sardines contain approximately 134 calories, 15 grams of protein, 8 grams of total fat, and zero carbohydrates. When canned in water, one serving size has fewer calories at 120 and less fat at 7 grams total fat. However, when sardines are packed in oil, you get more fat at 9 grams total fat and 2 grams saturated (or bad) fat.

Just a reminder: Sardines contain purines, which should be limited or avoided in patients with gout or chronic kidney disease. Sardines also contain little amounts of vitamin A and C, which you should be getting from your fruits and vegetables.

Sardines in Tomato Sauce: It’s the Healthiest

Sardines packed in tomato sauce are very nutritious and the best combination. Tomatoes, such as those found in ketchup and tomato sauces, are extremely high in antioxidants, especially carotenoids like beta-carotene and lycopene. Tomatoes may reduce your risk for heart disease, prostate cancer and other cancers of the digestive tract. Tomatoes also contain vitamin C, E and potassium too.

There are many ways to prepare sardines. You can put them in a pan-de-sal for a snack, toss them in your salad or use sardines (instead of meatballs) with your spaghetti. You may eat sardines with your rice, too. Add a healthy dose of vinegar or lemon (calamansi), which also has its own health benefits.

So, the next time you see those little canned sardines, I hope you will consider them as a healthy source of protein, vitamins and minerals for you and your family.

Posted in Health Tips/Advice, MEDIA: Print, Philippine STAR, Column.

The Outstanding Filipino Physicians (2009 TOFP Awardees)

First of all, let me congratulate the honorees of 2009’s The Outstanding Filipino Physician Award (TOFP Award). This prestigious award for Filipino doctors was conceptualized by the JC International Senate, in cooperation with the Department of Health, PhilHealth and PCSO.

Now on its third year, the TOFP Award recognizes Filipino doctors who have made significant contributions to the health profession by staying in the Philippines to serve their countrymen and resisting greater financial reward abroad. TOFP chairman Felipe Briones had launched the project in the different provinces to give recognition to doctors serving in the remote areas.

The deserving awardees are Dr. Charles Yu (Cavite), Dr. Benito Palines Atienza (Batangas City), Dr. Roel Zamora Cagape (General Santos City), Dr. Ray Longno Catague (North Cotabato), Dr. Arturo Capusura Cunanan Jr. (Culion, Palawan), Dr. Joseph Sulit Llenado (Tawi-Tawi, Zamboanga City), Dr. Maria Dominga Padilla-Lopez (NCR), Dr. Alfredo Bellosillo (NCR), Dr. Metodio Arao Palaypay (NCR), and Dr. Mario Salud De Villa (NCR).

The awarding ceremonies were held at the Manila Hotel last December 22, 2009. Let us know more and support their charitable and noble advocacies.

Posted in Announcement, Commentary, Inspirational Articles, MEDIA: Print, Philippine STAR, Column.

10 Lifesaving Numbers You Should Know

By Dr. Willie T. Ong, The Philippine STAR, December 22, 2009

Here are 10 numbers every person should know. Read on and learn about them. Be sure to keep them below danger levels.

1. Your Blood Pressure: 120 over 80, or lower.
The first number in the blood pressure refers to the pressure in the arteries when the heart is pumping. The second number correlates to the pressure when the heart is relaxed. The optimal blood pressure based on scientific studies is 115/76. To make this easier to remember, doctors round it off to 120/80. A blood pressure in excess of 140/90 (either one of the numbers) is considered high and must be treated with lifestyle change and/or medications. How important is this number? Well, if a person with a pressure of 160/90 reduces his blood pressure to 120/80 through medicines, he will live approximately 9 years longer.

2. Your Heart Rate: Within 60-90 a minute.
The normal heart rate at rest ranges from 60 to 90 beats a minute. You may check your heart rate by taking your pulse at the wrist area or the neck area. The most accurate heart rate is determined by listening to the heart with a stethoscope. An athletic person may have a heart rate as low as 50, which is normal for him. However, if a person’s resting heart rate is persistently above 90 beats a minute, he needs a check up to rule out thyroid disease, anemia, heavy smoking and other disorders. When we exercise, our heart rate increases, but should return to normal within 2-4 minutes of resting.

3. Your Waist Line: Less than 35.5 inches for males and less than 31 inches for females.
Now these numbers are a bit difficult to accept. But research shows that if your waistline (measured at the belly button and not the pants area) is less than 35.5 inches in males, and less than 31 inches in females, then you are in the ideal range. However, if your waistline is more than 40 inches in males, and more than 37 inches in females, then you are at the highest risk for a heart attack and stroke. People in between those numbers are at moderate risk and should try to reach their ideal body weight.

4. Your Ideal Body Weight: Within 10% of the Ideal.
Your ideal body weight is shown in the accompanying table. Try not to exceed 10% of your ideal weight. Anything more than 20% of the ideal weight is labeled as obese. The higher the weight, the greater the risk for diabetes, arthritis and heart disease.

5. Your LDL Cholesterol Level: Lower than 130 mg/dl.
LDL cholesterol is the ‘bad’ kind of cholesterol. It breaks apart easily and gets stuck in the walls of your arteries, causing impaired blood flow. If a middle-age man reduces his LDL cholesterol from a high 180 mg/dl down to 100 mg/dl, this will make him 3 years younger. To reduce your LDL cholesterol, reduce your intake of beef and pork, and increase intake of healthy fats like olive oil, fish, walnuts and Omega-3 fats. Monitor your cholesterol level at least once a year.

6. Your Oxygen Saturation Level: 95% or higher.
A pulse oximeter is a portable device that measures the amount of oxygen in your blood. The better your lung and heart function, the higher your oxygen saturation rate. Young adults usually have higher oxygen saturation levels of 98% or more. However, for chronic smokers and city dwellers, this level goes down. Breathe clean air, avoid cigarette smoke and use air-conditioning. All these will help keep your lungs strong and healthy. Practice slow and deep breathing for 5-10 minutes in the morning and at night. It’s relaxing and good for the lungs.

7. Your Fasting Blood Sugar: 100 mg/dl or lower.
A blood sugar higher than 100 mg/dl means that you are not normal. If you don’t watch out, this will lead to diabetes and its frightening complications. The excess sugar in your body causes damage to your arteries, causing cracks and holes to appear at the walls. If you have a first degree relative with diabetes, try to keep it lower than 90 mg/dl. Avoid simple sugars like donuts, candies and cake icings. Go for more veggies.

8. Your Body Fat: Less than 25% (for males), and less than 30% (for females).
Manny Pacquiao has a body fat of 10%. Wow! But for us ordinary mortals, the ideal numbers are less than 25% for males and less than 30% for females. Women have more body fat because of their breasts and wider hips area. To reduce your body fat, you have to exercise more to build more muscle mass. Also, reduce your fat and food intake to keep your weight down. These body fat measurements are available in gyms.

9. Your Sleep Hours: At least 7-8 hours
Sleeping and resting is a great way to boost your energies. The best sleep is at night, especially from 11 PM to 3 AM, because this is the time the liver exerts its regenerating powers. If you work the night-shift at call centers, then try darkening your room during the day to simulate nighttime sleep.

10. Your Bank Account
It’s partly true that wealth can buy you health. You need money to buy nutritious food, and to pay for medicines and hospital bills. However, there’s a limit to what money can buy. Exercise, healthy diet and a healthy lifestyle are still your choices. Get a yearly check-up. And make sure you have some money stashed away for urgent medical needs.

Finally, have a list of emergency contact numbers at hand, like your favorite doctor, the hospital, the fire department, etc. Keep these lifesaving numbers handy for your health and peace of mind.

Table 1. Ideal Body Weight

FOR MALES FOR FEMALES
Height Weight Height Weight
Pounds Kilos Pounds Kilos
5’ 0’’ 106 48.2 4’ 10’’ 90 40.9
5’ 1’’ 112 50.9 4’ 11’’ 95 43.2
5’ 2’’ 118 53.6 5’ 0’’ 100 45.4
5’ 3’’ 124 56.4 5’ 1’’ 105 47.7
5’ 4’’ 130 59.1 5’ 2’’ 110 50.0
5’ 5’’ 136 61.8 5’ 3’’ 115 52.3
5’ 6’’ 142 64.6 5’ 4’’ 120 54.6
5’ 7’’ 148 67.3 5’ 5’’ 125 56.8
5’ 8’’ 154 70.0 5’ 6’’ 130 59.1
5’ 9’’ 160 72.7 5’ 7’’ 135 61.4
5’ 10’’ 166 75.4 5’ 8’’ 140 63.6
5’ 11’’ 172 78.2
6’ 0’’ 180 81.8

Posted in Health Tips/Advice, MEDIA: Print, Philippine STAR, Column.