Makati gov’t distributes health kits for diabetes, hypertension

INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Makati City government has distributed specialized monitoring kits for diabetes and hypertension to residents and city employees, Mayor Abby Binay said on Monday.

As of posting, the Makati Health Department has rolled out 969 hypertension kits and 1,006 diabetes kits.

Binay said the initiative is part of Makati’s comprehensive health strategy to combat lifestyle diseases and enhance its residents’ quality of life.

“By providing these monitoring kits, we are not just equipping our citizens with tools; we are empowering them to take control of their health before they face critical health issues,” her statement read.

She added that regular monitoring can help residents reduce the risk of complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, and stroke.

The hypertension kit includes the following materials:

• Adult Aneroid Sphygmomanometer with a stethoscope
• NCD booklet with a monitoring diary
• Dietary guidelines
• Exercise plan
• Emergency contact tag bracelet
• Transparent storage bag

Meanwhile, the diabetes kit contains the following items:

• Glucometer with 25 strips and lancets
• NCD booklet tailored for diabetes management
• One pack of 15 cotton balls
• Emergency contact tag bracelet
• Transparent bag for organized storage
• Sharps collector for safe disposal

“Based on the data from the city’s free medicine program, maintenance medicine for hypertension and diabetes tops the list of medications dispensed to Yellow Card holders and dependents,” Binay said.

To encourage residents to maintain their health, the local government continues to conduct “regular health education sessions, community support, and direct access to specialized medical advice and periodic screenings,” she added.

READ: Makati City’s free medicine program benefits thousands of residents