Health authorities have raised concern over the sharp increase in stroke cases in Western Visayas, with figures from the Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) showing a significant rise in recent years.
Dr. Maria Socorro Quiñon, head of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO), said the growing number of stroke patients in the region has become alarming based on data reported by the WVMC.
Records showed that the hospital documented 808 stroke cases in 2024. The number nearly tripled to 2,326 cases in 2025, highlighting a worrying trend in the region’s health landscape.
The increase has continued this year, with 157 stroke cases already recorded in April 2026 alone.
On average, four to five stroke patients are being documented in the region every day, according to Quiñon.
Health experts believe the surge may be linked to poor management of hypertension and other chronic illnesses.
Quiñon noted that many individuals fail to take their maintenance medications regularly, particularly those diagnosed with high blood pressure.
She described hypertension as a “silent threat,” explaining that patients often experience no warning signs before suffering a stroke or myocardial infarction, more commonly known as a heart attack.
In response, the IPHO is urging the public, especially those with hypertension and diabetes, to strictly follow their prescribed medications and maintain regular consultations with healthcare providers.
The office also emphasized the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, moderation in alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking and vaping.
Quiñon also encouraged adults aged 20 and above to undergo routine health screenings at their respective Rural Health Units and other healthcare facilities.
The provincial health chief said early detection and treatment of high blood pressure and related conditions remain key to preventing stroke and other life-threatening diseases.IMT
