In a significant step towards combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Philippines, Novo Nordisk Philippines and the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism (PCEDM) have joined forces to enhance Type 2 diabetes management through a holistic and community-driven approach.
This partnership comes at a crucial time, as diabetes remains a major health concern in the country, ranking as the 5th leading cause of death and affecting millions of Filipinos.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that diabetes has doubled worldwide in the past 30 years, surpassing 800 million. In the Philippines, it remains a serious health challenge. But with this new initiative, there’s renewed optimism in tackling the disease more effectively.
Empowering doctors, transforming lives
Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a key role in diabetes care. To support them, PCEDM is expanding its Continuing Medical Education program, EASE DIABETES, by adding training on Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) which are medications that help control blood sugar, reduce appetite, and aid weight loss.
Through EASE DIABETES, PCPs in Quezon City and other LGUs will get specialized training. Partnering with Cities for Better Health, this initiative aims to improve early diabetes care and build healthier communities.
Bringing and strengthening healthcare innovation
Dr. Aurora Macaballug, President of PCEDM, highlights and assures that accessible options that are also utilized in other countries are “readily available in the Philippines.”
Novo Nordisk Philippines General Manager Wei Sun echoes this sentiment: “Change starts with awareness and education. Our goal is to bring these medical advancements to the public and empower patients and healthcare providers, showing them that advanced medical options which can elevate quality of life are readily available in the Philippines.”
In addition to training PCPs, Novo Nordisk Philippines and PCEDM are launching nationwide educational campaigns to equip grassroots healthcare providers with the knowledge they need to deliver top-quality care. These efforts will not only raise awareness but also enhance early detection, proper management, and access to the latest treatments.
This initiative builds on the Department of Health’s existing programs, including the National Diabetes Prevention and Control Plan and the Insulin Medicine Access Program.
By integrating these efforts with the latest medical advancements, the partnership ensures that Filipinos receive the best possible diabetes care.
With government agencies, private organizations, and medical experts joining forces, diabetes management in the Philippines is entering a new era of progress. This collaboration marks a significant step toward a healthier, more informed nation, bringing hope to millions of Filipinos.
