Projecting the Prevalence of Hypertension in the Philippines: Its Impact and the Need for a Call-to-Action

Abstract

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular mortality, and the global numbers of affected individuals are increasing. Several health care strategies and reforms have been implemented by different countries to curb the prevalence of hypertension and the Philippines has also started to implement programs for non-communicable diseases, including hypertension. To determine the impact of hypertension in the country, this paper aims to project the hypertension prevalence by 2050 using published statistical data and plotting the data to linear regression model. Results showed hypertension prevalence will remain as high as 23% but the number of cases will double in 2050 given the population projection if no intervention will occur. Filipino males will have a higher prevalence rate, but the hypertension cases will doubly increase in females by 2050. However, because some interventions conducted by the government and medical societies, hypertension prevalence declined in 2018. If the downward trend continues, we see a reduced projected rate of hypertension prevalence and lower cardiovascular deaths. This trend will continue if government and medical programs on hypertension continue to strengthen. The need for continued proper diagnosis and management of hypertension needs to be implemented in the country. Funding Statement: The Philippine Society of Hypertension Declaration of Interests: No conflict of interest.