Choose health: A commitment to a better tomorrow

"Health is wealth" is a well-known proverb, emphasizing the fact that good health is more valuable than material possessions or wealth. Without good health, wealth loses much of its meaning.

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And yet, in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, many people push health to the next priority when the demands of work, family, and other responsibilities come up. That eventually leaves little time for rest, exercise, or even proper meals. But the warning signs are clear — poor health choices have resulted in the country's growing burden of chronic diseases.

According to the Department of Health, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions account for over 70 percent of deaths in the Philippines. Many of these illnesses are linked to preventable risk factors such as physical inactivity, poor diet, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress.