MakatiMed explains why and what can be done about it.
The health landscape is changing. Diseases like hypertension, cardiovascular disease, obesity, type II diabetes, cancer, and depression, long associated with middle age, are now being diagnosed in millennials. Top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) highlights this alarming shift, noting that these conditions are no longer exclusive to Boomers and Gen X, but are impacting those in their late 20s to early 40s.
Unhealthy lifestyle choices are taking a toll on young Filipinos. According to a 2022 Department of Health (DOH) report, 36% of Filipinos 20 and older are obese, 20% smoke, 50-53% binge drink, and 40% are physically inactive. This may be contributing to another alarming trend: the Philippine Society of Oncologists reports an increase in breast and colorectal cancer diagnoses among those under 45.
Young people are facing a mental health crisis, with both millennials and Gen Z struggling. According to a Deloitte study, work-related burnout is a significant issue, affecting 63% of millennials and 50% of Gen Z. This stress may be contributing to an even more alarming trend: a dramatic rise in suicide attempts among Filipino youth. A 2021 study by the University of the Philippines Population Institute, funded by the DOH, revealed nearly 1.5 million attempts, more than double the number recorded in 2013.
Confluence of factors. Juan Armando D. Diaz, M.D., from the Section of Cardiology, attributes
millennials’ midlife health woes to a confluence of factors. “Work- and money-related stress can lead to high blood pressure, which puts you at risk for stroke or heart attack. Those experiencing chronic stress also tend to cope with bad habits like smoking, drinking, and choosing processed foods over balanced meals.”
“Millennials are very reliant on technology,” says Dr. Diaz. “More time staring at their gadgets for work, entertainment, communication, and online gaming means less time for sleep, physical exercise, exposure to sunlight and fresh air, and other practices that boost health and well-being.”
Act early. Dr. Diaz emphasizes the importance of taking early action to improve health, encouraging millennials to seek medical advice before making lifestyle changes. Dr. Diaz’s recommendations include engaging in 15-30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise several times a week, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, reducing processed foods and alcohol, and ensuring proper hydration.
Sleep is very important! Adequate sleep (7-9 hours) is crucial for recovery and overall well-being, and Dr. Diaz suggests reducing screen time before bed. “Sleep promotes repair and recovery. It’s also associated with weight loss, improved brain function, better mood, and a fresh appearance.”
Meet up IRL. “Seeing friends staves off loneliness, gives you a feeling of belonging, lifts your spirits, and may even prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s disease,” says Dr. Diaz. “Sometimes, just sharing a laugh or a sincere conversation with people who love and care for you is the best medicine there is.”
For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email
mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and
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