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Medical Groups and Advocates Unite to Tackle Lung Health Crisis in the Philippines

MANILA โ€“ The numbers donโ€™t lie, and the reality is alarming: lung diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer are taking a devastating toll on Filipinos. With nearly 5.2 million Filipinos affected by asthma in 2019 and COPD impacting an estimated 13 million as far back as 2011, the urgency to act has never been greater. Adding to this is the grim reality that lung cancer, the second most common cancer in the Philippines, is also the top cancer killer, claiming over 20,000 lives in 2022 alone.

In fact, the Philippines ranks second worldwide in asthma-related deaths, and COPD is now the seventh leading cause of death in the country. Lung cancer? It contributes to half of all cancer-related deaths, highlighting the need for immediate, decisive action.

Elevating Lung Health: A Summit for Change

Recognizing this crisis, medical societies, patient advocates, and key stakeholders came together for “Elevating Lung Health”, a summit focused on tackling asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. Spearheaded by AstraZeneca Philippines, the event brought together experts from organizations like the Philippine College of Chest Physicians, Lung Health Alliance Philippines (LungHAP), and the Philippine Society of Oncologists.

Dr. Cyril Tolosa, Medical Affairs Director at AstraZeneca Philippines, emphasized the companyโ€™s commitment:

โ€œAt AstraZeneca, we aim to eliminate asthma attacks, improve COPD outcomes, and reduce lung cancer mortality by 2030. Progress is possible when we work together, and this summit is a testament to that commitment.โ€

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The Challenges: Stories and Solutions

Experts like Dr. Ma. Janeth T. Samson of the Philippine College of Chest Physicians highlighted the gaps in care, from diagnosis to rehabilitation:

โ€œDespite advancements in medical science, the Philippines still struggles with early diagnosis and access to comprehensive care for asthma, COPD, and lung cancer. Collaboration is crucial to ensure no patient is left behind.โ€

Patient advocate and lung cancer survivor Engr. Emer Rojas shared his journey, shedding light on the emotional and financial burden lung diseases bring to families:

โ€œLung disease doesnโ€™t just affect patients; it impacts entire communities. We need champions from all sectors to lead the fight against this crisis.โ€

Addressing Barriers and Building Hope

Physicians emphasized the need for localized screening programs and accessible care.

โ€œFilipino patients face unique challenges. Without comprehensive screening, many are diagnosed too late for curative treatment,โ€ said Dr. Chita I. Nazal-Matunog, President of the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology.

The summit also encouraged proactive lung health habits, such as avoiding tobacco, staying active, minimizing exposure to pollutants, and scheduling regular check-ups.

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A Path Forward

Exciting innovations, like AI-powered diagnostic tools and new treatments for asthma and COPD, are paving the way for better care. Dr. Josefina Isidro-Lapeรฑa of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians stressed the importance of integrating primary care with specialists to create seamless patient experiences.

This summit proved one thing: collaboration is key. Whether through new technologies, patient advocacy, or simply raising awareness, the fight for lung health in the Philippines is gaining momentum. As Dr. Anna Guia O. Limpoco concluded:

โ€œThe road ahead is challenging, but together, we can create a future where lung health is a priority for every Filipino.โ€

Letโ€™s take this moment as a call to actionโ€”not just for medical professionals but for every Filipinoโ€”to breathe easier and live healthier.

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