A number of children with heart problems are rising, according to the Philippine Heart Association (PHAI).
PHAI President Dr. Efren Vicaldo said the rise in the number of obese people with heart ailments, particularly in the youth, stems from unhealthy lifestyle, lack of exercise, improper diet and smoking.
Data showed that 1.1 billion people in the world are overweight while 20 million are obese.
Philippine statistics in 2003 reported that 19.6 percent of the population was overweight while 4.9 percent was obese. Overweight and obesity are predisposing factors to heart ailments.
Dr. Vicaldo noted that the youth’s preference for fast foods, computers and television also play a big role in the rising cases of heart ailments.
PHAI said 1.9 percent of children aged three to five years are overweight. Because of this, the association urged parents to provide their kids healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables.
The PHAI also encouraged the public to make it a habit to walk at least 400 meters a day to have a healthy heart.
