Alarming new data reveals a growing crisis of brain-related disorders in the Philippines, with stroke ranking as a top cause of death and dementia cases projected to skyrocket, pushing experts to urge immediate public action on cognitive health.
Citing recent figures, the Philippine Statistics Authority confirmed stroke was among the top three leading causes of death from January to August 2024. Simultaneously, a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease estimates that 10.6% of Filipinos aged 60 and older are living with dementia, a number forecast to surge to over 1.47 million cases by 2030.
“This growing incidence is causing more disability and deaths, making it the second most significant health concern in Asia, after cardiovascular disease,” said Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education & Training Lead for Asia Pacific at Herbalife.
Dr. Sae-Lao emphasized that while occasional memory lapses are normal, the confluence of an aging population and modern lifestyle factors makes proactive brain care an urgent public health priority.
A Five-Pillar Defense for the Mind
In conjunction with World Mental Health Day, Dr. Sae-Lao outlined a practical, five-pillar strategy to help Filipinos combat cognitive decline and enhance mental resilience.
Nourish the Mind: Dr. Sae-Lao advocates for an anti-inflammatory diet, stressing that “you feel and think what you eat.” Key recommendations include consuming lutein from spinach and eggs, antioxidants from berries, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish and nuts. She also advised minimizing refined sugar, salt, and highly processed foods.
Move to Improve: Regular physical activity is critical. Following CDC guidelines of at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly is shown to support cognitive function, improve mood, and reduce the risk of decline.
Challenge the Circuit: The brain needs a workout. Activities like reading, puzzles, and learning new skills stimulate neural networks and help slow age-related weakening.
Cultivate a Clean Mind: This involves limiting exposure to environmental pollutants, reducing digital screen time for mental clarity, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol.
Connect and Thrive: Strong social ties are a proven cognitive shield. “Wholesome social networks can lift mood, protect memory and support long-term brain health,” Dr. Sae-Lao explained, highlighting that meaningful social engagement builds mental resilience.
With the shadow of neurological disorders lengthening, Dr. Sae-Lao’s message is clear: prevention through daily habits is the nation’s most powerful tool to safeguard cognitive well-being and ensure a healthier future for the Filipino brain.#
