The Philippines, like many other countries, faces a range of health challenges that affect the well-being of its population. Among these challenges are the top causes of death, including communicable and non-communicable diseases, injuries, and other factors.
Infectious diseases, such as pneumonia and tuberculosis, significantly contribute to mortality, particularly among children and young adults.
Non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease and cancer, are also major causes of death, often linked to lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, and poor diet. Injuries, including road accidents, drownings, and falls, are another significant contributor to mortality among young people. Addressing these causes of death requires a multi-sectoral approach that involves individuals, communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers.
Table of Contents
Top 15 causes of death in the Philippines
Here are the top 15 causes of death in the Philippines based on data from the Philippine Statistics Authority in 2020.
- Ischemic heart diseases
- Neoplasms (cancer)
- Cerebrovascular diseases (stroke)
- Pneumonia
- Diabetes mellitus
- Chronic lower respiratory diseases
- Hypertensive diseases
- Nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and nephrosis (kidney diseases)
- Accidents
- Tuberculosis
- Heart failure
- Other forms of heart diseases
- Liver diseases
- Septicemia
- Other conditions of the respiratory system
Importance of understanding causes of death in the Philippines
Understanding the common causes of death in the Philippines is important for several reasons:
Improving public health outcomes
By identifying the most prevalent causes of death, public health officials can develop targeted interventions to reduce mortality rates and improve overall health outcomes for the population.
Effective resource allocation
Knowledge of the most common causes of death can help governments and healthcare systems allocate resources more effectively by investing in prevention and early detection programs, improving access to healthcare services, and investing in research and development.
Personal health management
Understanding the common causes of death in the Philippines can help individuals make informed decisions about their health, such as adopting healthier lifestyles and seeking preventative care.
Addressing health disparities
Understanding the common causes of death can help identify disparities in health outcomes between different demographic groups and regions and inform policies to address these disparities.
Economic impact
The economic costs of premature death and disability can significantly impact individuals, families, and the economy as a whole. Understanding the common causes of death in the Philippines can help policymakers identify opportunities to reduce healthcare costs and promote economic growth.
Communicable diseases
Communicable diseases, also known as infectious diseases, are illnesses caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites that can be transmitted from one person to another through various transmission routes, such as respiratory droplets, bodily fluids, or contaminated objects.
Top infectious diseases in the Philippines
The Philippines has several infectious diseases that have caused significant morbidity and mortality rates.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Philippines has a high burden of infectious diseases. In 2019, there was an estimated 554,000 tuberculosis (TB) cases in the country, making it one of the world’s 30 high TB burden countries. Malaria is also a concern, particularly in some areas of the country, with an estimated 8,400 cases reported in 2019. Dengue fever is another significant public health concern in the Philippines, with over 200,000 cases reported in 2019.
Measles is also a significant health issue, with outbreaks reported in the country in recent years. Finally, HIV remains a concern in the Philippines, with an estimated 77,000 people living with HIV as of 2019. These statistics highlight the need for continued efforts to prevent and control these infectious diseases in the Philippines, including access to testing and treatment, public awareness campaigns, and interventions to prevent and reduce transmission.
Tuberculosis (TB)
TB is an airborne bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. It is one of the leading causes of death in the Philippines, particularly among the poor and marginalized populations.
Malaria
Malaria is a mosquito-borne parasitic infection that can cause fever, chills, and flu-like symptoms. It is endemic in some areas of the Philippines, particularly in remote and rural communities.
Dengue fever
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause severe flu-like symptoms and, in some cases, life-threatening complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause fever, rash, and respiratory symptoms. It can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation, and death, particularly among children and immunocompromised individuals.
HIV/AIDS
HIV is a sexually transmitted viral infection that can lead to AIDS, a condition that weakens the immune system and makes individuals susceptible to various opportunistic infections and cancers. The Philippines has one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics in the Asia-Pacific region.
Preventing infectious diseases
Preventing the spread of communicable diseases in the Philippines requires a collaborative effort from individuals, communities, healthcare providers, and government agencies. A multi-pronged approach that includes vaccination programs, improved sanitation and hygiene, and effective infection control measures in healthcare settings will help reduce the incidence of infectious diseases.
Vaccination
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent infectious diseases. The Philippines has a comprehensive vaccination program that offers free vaccines to children and adults for various diseases such as tuberculosis, measles, polio, and influenza.
Good hygiene
Proper handwashing, use of hand sanitizers, and good personal hygiene practices can help prevent the spread of many infectious diseases, such as respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and skin infections.
Safe food and water
Contaminated food and water can transmit infectious diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Ensuring safe food and water sources by proper sanitation and hygiene practices can prevent the spread of these diseases.
Environmental health
Maintaining clean and safe environments can help prevent the spread of communicable diseases, such as cleaning surfaces, disinfecting common areas, and proper waste management.
Health education
Educating the public about transmitting and preventing communicable diseases can increase awareness and promote healthy behaviors. Health education can be done through public campaigns, social media, and community outreach programs.
Infection control measures
Healthcare facilities must implement appropriate infection control measures to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. This includes proper use of personal protective equipment, disinfection of equipment and surfaces, and appropriate isolation precautions.
Early diagnosis and treatment
Proactive detection can prevent the spread of infectious diseases and reduce the severity of symptoms. Individuals should seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms of communicable diseases.
Non-communicable diseases in the Philippines
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), also known as chronic diseases, are illnesses that are not caused by infectious agents and are generally long-lasting and develop over time. NCDs are the leading cause of death worldwide, and their incidence is increasing rapidly, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Cardiovascular diseases
Cardiovascular diseases, including coronary heart disease, stroke, and hypertension, are the leading cause of death in the Philippines. Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases include tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and obesity.
According to the Department of Health (DOH) of the Philippines, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death in the country, accounting for 23.1% of all deaths in 2018. Additionally, the DOH reports that 1 in 4 Filipino adults has hypertension, a major risk factor for CVDs.
Regarding specific CVDs, ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease (stroke) are the top causes of CVD-related deaths in the Philippines. These statistics highlight the need for continued efforts to prevent and manage CVDs in the Philippines, including addressing risk factors such as hypertension, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving access to quality healthcare.
Cancer
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the Philippines. Common types of cancer in the Philippines include lung, breast, and liver. Cancer risk factors include tobacco use, alcohol consumption, an unhealthy diet, and exposure to environmental toxins.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels. In the Philippines, diabetes is a significant public health concern, affecting approximately 6 million Filipinos. Risk factors for diabetes include an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and obesity.
According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the prevalence of diabetes in the Philippines was 7.3% in 2019, translating to approximately 4.7 million adults living with diabetes. Additionally, the IDF estimates that there were 183,000 new cases of diabetes among adults in the Philippines in 2019.
Diabetes is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality in the Philippines, and it is often linked to other non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease. These statistics highlight the need for continued efforts to prevent and manage diabetes in the Philippines, including public awareness campaigns, early detection and diagnosis, and access to quality diabetes care.
Chronic respiratory diseases
Chronic respiratory diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the Philippines. Risk factors for chronic respiratory diseases include tobacco use, air pollution, and occupational exposure.
Mental health disorders
Mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, are a significant disease burden in the Philippines. Risk factors for mental health disorders include social and economic factors, genetic predisposition, and environmental factors.
Preventing and managing non-communicable diseases in the Philippines requires a comprehensive approach that includes health promotion and prevention strategies, early diagnosis and treatment, and access to quality healthcare services. This requires collaborative efforts from government agencies, healthcare providers, and individuals in the community.
Risk factors for non-communicable diseases
The risk factors for non-communicable diseases in the Philippines are complex and multifaceted, including both individual and societal factors. Some of the main risk factors for non-communicable diseases in the Philippines include:
Unhealthy diet
A diet high in processed foods, saturated and trans fats, sugar, and salt is a significant risk factor for non-communicable diseases, including obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Physical inactivity
Lack of regular physical activity and sedentary behavior are associated with an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Tobacco use
Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke are leading risk factors for lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cardiovascular disease.
According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) conducted in the Philippines in 2015, the prevalence of tobacco use among adults (aged 15 years and above) was 23.8%.
Specifically, 31.7% of men and 14.7% of women were tobacco users. The survey also found that smoking prevalence was highest among those aged 25-34 years (31.5%).
Additionally, 11.9 million Filipino adults were exposed to secondhand smoke in their homes, while 10.8 million were exposed to secondhand smoke in public places. These statistics highlight the need for continued efforts to address tobacco use in the Philippines, including tobacco control policies, public awareness campaigns, and smoking cessation programs.
Alcohol consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of liver disease, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.
According to the 2018 Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health by the World Health Organization (WHO), the per capita consumption of alcohol in the Philippines was 5.9 liters of pure alcohol per person aged 15 years or older.
In terms of prevalence, the report stated that 27.3% of Filipinos aged 15 years or older had consumed alcohol in the past 12 months. Additionally, 16.7% of males and 4.7% of females aged 15-19 years had engaged in heavy episodic drinking (i.e., consuming at least 60 grams or more of pure alcohol on at least one occasion in the past 30 days). These statistics highlight the need for continued efforts to address harmful alcohol use in the Philippines, including alcohol control policies, public awareness campaigns, and interventions to prevent and reduce alcohol-related harm.
Air pollution
Exposure to outdoor and indoor air pollution increases the risk of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
Occupational hazards
Exposure to occupational hazards, such as chemicals and toxins, increases the risk of respiratory diseases, cancer, and other non-communicable diseases.
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), 210 reported occupational accidents resulted in death in 2019.
The industries with the highest number of reported fatal occupational accidents were construction (32.9%), transportation and storage (21.0%), and agriculture, forestry, and fishing (16.2%). The PSA also reported 89,103 reported non-fatal occupational injuries in the same year. The most common causes of these injuries were falls, slips, and trips (24.1%), being struck by an object (20.3%), and body stress (17.1%). These statistics underscore the importance of workplace safety measures and the need to prioritize the health and safety of workers in the Philippines.
Socioeconomic factors
Poverty, low education level, and lack of access to healthcare are associated with an increased risk of non-communicable diseases.
Addressing these risk factors requires a collaborative effort from individuals, communities, healthcare providers, and government agencies. Prevention strategies should promote healthy behaviors and reduce exposure to environmental and occupational hazards. Healthcare services should be accessible and affordable, and public policies should support healthy environments and lifestyles.
Ways to prevent non-communicable diseases
Preventing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying risk factors and promotes healthy behaviors and lifestyles. Here are some ways to prevent NCDs:
Adopt a healthy diet
A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce the risk of NCDs. Avoid processed and sugary foods and limit salt and saturated fats intake.
Increase physical activity
Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight, reduce NCD risk, and improve mental health. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Avoid tobacco and alcohol
Avoiding tobacco use and reducing alcohol consumption can significantly reduce NCD risk.
Manage stress
Chronic stress can contribute to the development of NCDs. Engage in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation, yoga, or exercise.
Get regular health check-ups
Regular health check-ups can help detect early signs of NCDs and manage risk factors.
Reduce exposure to environmental hazards
Reducing exposure to air pollution, toxins, and other environmental hazards that can contribute to the development of NCDs.
Improve access to healthcare
Better access to affordable and quality healthcare services can improve early detection, management, and prevention of NCDs.
Implement public health policies
Public health policies, such as taxation on tobacco and sugary drinks, can reduce the prevalence of NCDs and promote healthy behaviors.
Preventing NCDs requires a multi-sectoral approach that involves individuals, communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By working together, we can reduce the burden of NCDs and promote healthy and sustainable living.
Injuries
Injuries that cause death in the Philippines are defined as physical harm or damage to the body that results in death. These injuries can be intentional or unintentional and can result from various causes, including accidents, violence, and self-harm. Injuries are a significant cause of death and disability in the Philippines, with many resulting from preventable causes. Some common types of injuries that cause death in the Philippines include:
Road traffic injuries
These include accidents involving cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians.
Drowning
Drowning is a significant cause of death, particularly among children and young adults.
Falls
Falls at home or at the workplace can result in serious injuries, particularly among older adults.
Fires
Fires can result in burns, smoke inhalation, and other injuries that can be fatal.
Poisoning
Poisoning can result from exposure to toxic chemicals, drugs, or other substances.
Self-harm
Self-harm, including suicide, is a significant cause of death, particularly among young adults.
Homicide
Homicide is a leading cause of death, particularly among young males within areas with high crime rates.
Preventing injuries that cause death requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes and risk factors. Strategies may include improving road safety, promoting safe behavior, reducing access to lethal means, improving mental health services, and addressing societal factors contributing to violence and injury.
Causes of injuries resulting to death in the Philippines
njuries in the Philippines are caused by a wide range of factors, including both intentional and unintentional causes. Some common causes of injuries in the Philippines include:
Road accidents
Road accidents are a leading cause of injuries in the Philippines, with many accidents involving motorcycles, buses, and trucks. Causes include reckless driving, speeding, and poor road infrastructure.
Occupational injuries
Many people in the Philippines work in hazardous occupations, such as construction, mining, and agriculture. Occupational injuries can result from exposure to hazardous chemicals, machinery accidents, and falls.
Violence
Violence is a significant cause of injuries in the Philippines, including homicide, assault, and domestic violence.
Falls
Falls can result in serious injuries, particularly among older adults. Factors that contribute to falls include poor lighting, uneven surfaces, and lack of safety equipment.
Fire and burns
Fires and burns can result in serious injuries, particularly in densely populated urban areas. Causes include faulty electrical wiring, cooking accidents, and natural disasters.
Natural disasters
Natural disasters like typhoons, floods, and earthquakes can result in injuries and fatalities.
Sports and recreational activities
Sports and recreational activities, such as basketball, soccer, and swimming, can result in injuries, particularly among young people.
Preventing injuries in the Philippines requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying causes and risk factors. Strategies may include improving road safety, promoting safe behavior, providing adequate training and equipment in hazardous occupations, addressing social factors that contribute to violence, and improving disaster preparedness and response.
How to reduce and prevent injuries
Preventing injuries requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the underlying causes and risk factors.
Promote safe behavior
Encourage safe behavior by providing education and awareness campaigns on injury prevention. This can include teaching safe driving practices, proper use of equipment, and safe recreational activities.
Improve infrastructure
Improving road infrastructure, installing safety features like guardrails and traffic lights, and maintaining sidewalks and pedestrian crossings can help prevent road accidents and injuries.
Implement and enforce laws
Implement and enforce laws that promote safety, such as road speed limits, use of helmet and seatbelts, and better enforcement of regulations for hazardous occupations.
Provide adequate training and equipment
Provision of adequate training and equipment for workers in hazardous occupations will help reduce the risk of occupational injuries.
Improve disaster preparedness and response
Improving disaster awareness, preparedness, and response can help reduce the risk of injuries during natural disasters, such as floods and earthquakes.
Address societal factors
Addressing social issues that contribute to violence, such as poverty, social inequality, and lack of access to education and healthcare, will help reduce incidences of injury.
Promote mental health
Addressing mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, can reduce self-harm and suicide cases.
Install fire safety measures
Installation of fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, will help prevent fires and burns, especially on hazardous premises.
Provide first-aid training
Training individuals, including basic life support, to enable them to respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.
Preventing injuries requires a multi-sectoral approach that involves individuals, communities, healthcare providers, and policymakers. By working together, we can reduce the burden of injuries and promote safety and well-being for all.
Other factors that contribute to mortality in the Philippines
Aside from communicable and non-communicable diseases, and injuries, other factors contribute to mortality in the Philippines. Some of these factors include:
Malnutrition
Malnutrition remains a pressing problem in the Philippines, particularly among children under five years old. Malnutrition can lead to a weakened immune system, stunted growth, and other health problems contributing to mortality.
Maternal and child health
Maternal and child health is a significant concern in the Philippines. Maternal mortality remains high, and many children die from preventable causes such as pneumonia, diarrhea, and malnutrition.
Access to healthcare
Access to healthcare is a significant problem in the Philippines, particularly in rural areas. Many people do not have access to essential health services, including vaccinations, maternal and child health services, and treatment for chronic conditions.
Environmental factors
Environmental factors, such as pollution and exposure to natural disasters, can contribute to mortality in the Philippines. Air pollution, for example, can lead to respiratory problems, while natural disasters can result in injuries, displacement, and other health problems.
Lifestyle factors
Lifestyle factors, such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity, can contribute to mortality in the Philippines. These factors can increase the risk of non-communicable diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
Aging population
The Philippines is experiencing an aging population, which can increase the risk of chronic conditions and other health problems.
Addressing these factors requires a comprehensive approach that involves improving access to healthcare, promoting healthy lifestyles, addressing environmental factors, and investing in maternal and child health services. By addressing these factors, we can improve health outcomes and reduce mortality in the Philippines.
Conclusion
In summary, the main causes of death in the Philippines are a combination of communicable and non-communicable diseases and injuries. These include cardiovascular diseases, cancer, respiratory illnesses, diabetes, and injuries from accidents and violence.
Efforts to prevent and manage these health issues are crucial to improving health outcomes and reducing mortality in the Philippines, including addressing risk factors, promoting healthy lifestyles, and improving access to quality healthcare.
