Ischaemic heart diseases remained the leading cause of death in the Philippines from January to November 2024, according to new data released by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
The data underscore ongoing public health challenges despite broader efforts to expand access to health care and promote healthier lifestyles.
The PSA reported 96,049 deaths from ischaemic heart diseases during the period, accounting for 19.3 percent of all deaths nationwide. Neoplasms, which include various forms of cancer, were the second leading cause of mortality, with 55,105 recorded deaths or 11.1 percent of the total.
Cerebrovascular diseases—often linked to strokes—ranked third with 49,349 fatalities.
Chronic lower respiratory diseases and diabetes mellitus followed, with 33,040 and 31,321 deaths respectively, each contributing more than 6 percent of total mortality.
PSA said the disease ranking mirrors trends from the same period in 2023, indicating persistent non-communicable disease burdens despite improved disease awareness and medical advances.
The data highlights the continued need for preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and lifestyle interventions focused on cardiovascular health and cancer prevention. Public health experts also point to the importance of strengthening primary care, particularly in underserved areas, to mitigate these leading causes of mortality over the long term.
