Doctors call on public to prioritize vascular health

The Philippine Society of Vascular Medicine (PSVM) educated the public against the health risks of vascular diseases in the first “Usapang Vein Health Tayo” held recently at VistaMall, Taguig City.

Chronic Venous Disease (CVD) is a common but under-recognized condition among adults in the Philippines. In a report from the National Nutrition and Health Survey of the Philippines, five out of 10 adult Filipinos suffer from CVD.

The most prevalent symptom of CVD is leg heaviness or leg pain, which usually occurs upon prolonged standing or after a long workout. Other manifestations include spider veins, varicose veins, leg swelling,and darkening or brownish discoloration of the skin in the lower legs.

“Many people would mistakenly think that they have diabetes because of the non-healing nature of the wound. The underlying problem in all these cases is vein valve reflux,” said Dr. David Raymund K. Salvador, PSVM president.

Veins main function is to return the oxygen-rich blood to the heart from different parts of the body. Inside the veins are structures known as valves, which ensure blood flows back to the heart.

Dr. Jonathan James G. Bernardo, PSVM treasurer, explains that valves prevent the backflow of blood. He added that the weakening and destruction of valves, as well as the increase in pressure inside the veins can also trigger the backflow in the veins, resulting to spider veins and varicose veins.

Left untreated, the skin in the lower legs develops a brownish discoloration, eventually resulting in weakening of the skin. In its most severe form, occurrence of an unhealed wound for several weeks to months.

According to Dr. Rosella Arellano, PSVM vice president, the keys to prevent vascular diseases are to avoid or quit smoking, regular physical activity, and sticking to a healthy low-sodium, low-fat diet.

PSVM also encourages the public to consult a physician if the above symptoms occur.

“Usapang Vein Health Tayo” is supported by Servier Philippines, which aims to address the unmet medical and therapeutic needs of Filipinos, including chronic venous diseases.

The lay forum, in line with FAME Inc.‘s one-day health and wellness caravan, titled “Sagot Ka Ni Dok” was attended by doctors, health and public officials, brand partners, media and the public.

For inquiries, visit http://www.psvm. org.ph/ or call 723-0301 loc 6502.