According to the World Health Organization (WHO), heart disease accounts for a third of deaths in the Philippines. Known as cardiovascular disease (CVD), it impacts the heart and blood vessels. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, many in the Philippines have seen weakened immune systems, heightening their susceptibility to severe heart disease. Medical experts recognize a strong correlation between poverty and health issues in developing countries, where inadequate living conditions and sanitation can lead to health complications.

These countries often face a shortage of medical professionals. Research from the University of the Philippines highlights a significant gap in its health care system, particularly the low ratio of doctors to the population, which delays CVD diagnoses. To address these ongoing challenges, several organizations are stepping up to help, including the Children’s Heart Foundation, Gift of Life International and the Philips Foundation.

3 Organizations Fighting Heart Disease in the Philippines

1. Children’s Heart Foundation. Founded in 2000 by a group of volunteers, the Children’s Heart Foundation emerged from a successful fundraising campaign for a young patient with cardiovascular disease (CVD) a year earlier. The nonprofit organization dedicates itself to “helping economically deprived children with heart disease access quality medical care.” Its primary location in Makati City partners with the local Philippines Heart Center to provide financial assistance to patients completing their treatments. Additionally, the Children’s Heart Foundation offers social opportunities for patients to connect with others facing similar health challenges, enhancing their support network.
2. Gift of Life International. Gift of Life International provides life-saving cardiac care to Filipino children suffering from heart disease. As a global organization, it has received significant requests for aid from the Philippines, particularly in Manila. By partnering with local groups, Gift of Life International has positively impacted more than 3,000 children there, investing $805,000 in its care. The organization’s outreach operates on three fronts: securing donations, handling requests for aid—whether from a country or for an individual child—and facilitating volunteer involvement in ongoing efforts.
3. Philips Foundation. The Philips Foundation has launched an initiative in the Philippines to combat heart disease by detecting early signs of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD). The foundation aims to reach half a million people in the Philippines, equipping employees to raise awareness about CVD and diagnose it before it becomes fatal. It uses innovative hand-held ultrasound screeners to accelerate the diagnosis process. Additionally, the foundation plans to train 200 teachers in these diagnostic techniques and general heart disease awareness. If successful, this initiative, known as its ‘pilot’ project, could expand further in the Philippines and globally. The Philippines was selected for this major initiative due to its critical need for enhanced heart disease care.

Looking Ahead

Efforts to combat cardiovascular disease in the Philippines continue to expand, bringing hope to many in need of critical care. By providing treatment, financial assistance and early diagnostic tools, dedicated organizations aim to reduce the incidence of heart disease and strengthen the health care system. As these initiatives progress, they pave the way for greater health equity and set a foundation for improved medical support across the country, especially for those most at risk.

– Nadia Haeryfar

Nadia is based in Ashford, CT, USA and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr