Santa Marcela rolls out hypertension program, brings health services to residents

Blood pressure screening, medical consultations, medicines, and health education were brought closer to residents of Barangay San Antonio on June 2 as the Municipality of Santa Marcela rolled out the Proteksyon Para sa Altapresyon Program (PPSA).

The activity was conducted by the Municipal Health Office (MHO) in partnership with the Provincial Health Office (PHO), Department of Health (DOH), and Santa Marcela District Hospital (SMDH) as part of efforts to strengthen hypertension prevention and early detection at the community level.

Residents availed of various health services, including blood pressure monitoring, medical and dental consultations, non-communicable disease risk assessment, medicines, and YAKAP registration.

Municipal Health Officer Dr. Myolaine C. Hilario presented the program and discussed the importance of regular checkups and adherence to maintenance medication in managing hypertension and preventing complications.

Representing Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Mark Joleen Calban, Karla Katrina Langbay said Apayao was selected as one of the rollout sites for the PPSA, citing ongoing efforts to expand preventive healthcare services and encourage regular blood pressure monitoring among residents.

Mayor Evelyn B. Martinez, meanwhile, urged residents to pay closer attention to their health through proper nutrition, regular consultations, and healthier daily habits.

A commitment-signing activity and ceremonial blood pressure screening involving local officials, health workers, and partner agencies were also conducted during the program.

A lecture on hypertension and healthy lifestyle practices was likewise delivered by DOH Doctor to the Barrios Dr. Jezreelyan Villanueva.