May is Hypertension Awareness Month and Cervical Cancer Consciousness Month
May of every year has been declared Hypertension Awareness Month and Cervical Cancer Consciousness Month, by virtue of Proclamation No. 1761, s. 2009, and Proclamation No. 368, s. 2003, respectively. Through these proclamations, both government and non-government organizations are encouraged to make campaigns and activities that will increase public awareness of these two diseases.
Hypertension is one of the major factors in the development of a stroke. The most common cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or high blood pressure, is caused by smoking , being overweight, heavy alcohol consumption, old age and many other factors.
Among women, the second most common cancer is cervical cancer. Although there is not yet any conclusive data on what causes this cancer, what is best is to have it treated early before it has a chance to develop.
Both ailments are known as “silent killers” because they usually go undetected and their symptoms don’t manifest immediately. General care and awareness of one’s body through a balanced diet and regular visits to the doctor, go a long way.