Novo Nordisk and PCEDM sign a partnership agreement against serious non-communicable diseases

As Heart Month reminds us of the critical need to protect our cardiovascular and metabolic (CVM) health, Novo Nordisk Philippines and the Philippine College of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism (PCEDM) are stepping up the fight against Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) by signing a partnership agreement to address the alarming rise of NCDs that not only threaten lives but also significantly strain the healthcare system.

Novo Nordisk Philippines and PCEDM key executives at the signing ceremony of a partnership agreement aimed at empowering patients and healthcare providers on the latest medical advancements in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart disease and stroke, are closely linked to other NCDs, such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. High blood sugar from diabetes damages blood vessels over time, while hypertension forces the heart to work harder than normal. Diabetes also accelerates the buildup of arterial plaques, which block blood flow to the brain and heart, increasing the risk of life-threatening complications.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the cases of diabetes have alarmingly doubled to over 800 Million cases globally in just 30 years. In the Philippines alone, diabetes now ranks as the 5th leading cause of death, claiming the lives of over 15,000 Filipinos annually as of 2024.

When it comes to managing NCDs, Primary Care Physicians (PCPs) and healthcare providers in Local Government Units (LGUs) are at the forefront. As the primary point of contact for patients, PCPs must stay updated on the latest advancements in treatment and inform patients about accessible, innovative options that are successfully used in other countries and are readily available in the Philippines. 

“To effectively combat diseases, we must begin in our communities. It is essential to empower healthcare providers at the most basic level to address illnesses at the earliest point of care for every Filipino. This means equipping them with the best knowledge and innovations available,” said PCEDM President Dr. Aurora Macaballug.

One such innovation is the availability of a diabetes drug class called Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) drugs in the Philippines. These medications mimic natural hormones to stimulate insulin release, reduce appetite, and aid in weight loss—all crucial for effectively managing diabetes. Despite their potential, they remain relatively unknown to both the public and many healthcare providers.

Novo Nordisk Philippines and PCEDM signed a partnership agreement to enhance awareness and education on medical innovations in diabetes management and treatment in the Philippines.

To address these gaps, Novo Nordisk Philippines and PCEDM are collaborating to strengthen type 2 diabetes management through a holistic approach. This EASE Diabetes partnership program incorporates education on the latest clinical practice guideline updates and the emerging treatment paradigms in type 2 diabetes care.

In collaboration with Cities for Better Health, a global public-private partnership committed to accelerating change in urban health across generations, PCEDM and Novo Nordisk Philippines will be able to extend the EASE Diabetes program to PCPs of Quezon City and other LGUs in the country. 

Through this pioneering program, healthcare providers in Quezon City will receive access to specialized modules aimed at enhancing their capacity to manage NCDs and diabetes effectively, allowing frontline healthcare providers to be equipped to address the unique challenges faced by urban communities. 

The program also promotes stronger collaboration between primary care physicians (PCPs) and healthcare specialists, fostering a multi-disciplinary approach to type 2 diabetes management. This enables patients to benefit from comprehensive care that addresses the complexities of the disease.

“Change starts with awareness and education,” said Wei Sun, General Manager of Novo Nordisk Philippines. “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.”

The partnership will launch education campaigns aimed at equipping healthcare providers at the grassroots level with the knowledge and tools to provide equitable care. These initiatives will focus on enhancing the capacity of local healthcare providers to deliver early detection, proper management, and innovative treatment options, ensuring that patients can receive comprehensive care in their communities. 

This collaboration seeks to elevate awareness among Filipinos and healthcare providers about innovative treatment solutions and real-world applications that can significantly improve the management of diabetes and other NCDs. It aims to enhance patient outcomes, decrease disease burdens, and contribute to a healthier, more informed Filipino society.

ADVT. 

This article is brought to you by Novo Nordisk.