Why Women Face Higher Risks for Osteoporosis, Thyroid Cancer, RA, and Alzheimer's

Why Women Face Higher Risks for Osteoporosis, Thyroid Cancer, RA, and Alzheimer's

July 20, 2026

Women's health extends far beyond reproductive care. While many women prioritize routine screenings for breast and cervical cancer, they may be less aware that biological differences also make them more susceptible to several chronic conditions that affect both men and women.

Hormonal changes, genetics, immune function, and longer life expectancy all contribute to a higher risk of diseases such as osteoporosis, thyroid cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease. Understanding these risks can help women make informed lifestyle choices and recognize symptoms earlier, improving long-term health outcomes.

According to Dr. Sheryll Cornejo, an internal medicine consultant at Makati Medical Center, prevention begins with recognizing how these conditions develop and taking practical steps to reduce risk.

Why Are Some Diseases More Common in Women?

Several biological and lifestyle factors contribute to women's increased vulnerability to certain illnesses.

These include:

• Hormonal changes throughout life, particularly during menopause
• Genetic differences that affect immune function
• Anatomical differences such as lower bone density
• Longer average life expectancy
• Family history and inherited risk factors
• Lifestyle habits including diet, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption

While some risks cannot be changed, many can be managed through preventive healthcare and healthy living.

1. Osteoporosis: Why Bone Loss Accelerates After Menopause

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to fracture.

Women are especially vulnerable because they naturally have smaller, thinner bones than men. After menopause, estrogen levels decline significantly, accelerating bone loss and increasing fracture risk.

How can women reduce their risk?

Building bone strength should begin long before menopause.

Health experts recommend:

• Eating calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fish with edible bones
• Getting enough vitamin D through safe sun exposure and diet
• Performing regular weight-bearing exercises like walking or jogging
• Including strength training several times a week
• Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Maintaining bone health early in adulthood can help reduce complications later in life.

2. Why Thyroid Cancer Is Diagnosed More Often in Women

Thyroid cancer affects both sexes, but it is diagnosed more frequently among women, particularly during their reproductive years.

Researchers believe female hormones may play a role because thyroid tissue contains estrogen receptors. Hormonal fluctuations may encourage abnormal thyroid cell growth in susceptible individuals.

Other recognized risk factors include:

• Family history of thyroid cancer
• Genetic mutations
• Previous radiation exposure
• Iodine deficiency
• Obesity

Can thyroid cancer be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent thyroid cancer, but women can lower their overall risk by:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Eating a balanced diet
• Avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure
• Knowing their family's medical history
• Performing regular neck self-examinations

Early detection remains one of the biggest factors contributing to successful treatment outcomes.

3. Rheumatoid Arthritis: When the Immune System Attacks the Body

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and eventually joint damage.

Women are two to three times more likely than men to develop RA.

Scientists believe one explanation lies in women's stronger immune systems. Because females have two X chromosomes, which contain many immune-related genes, they may be more susceptible to autoimmune disorders.

Hormonal changes after pregnancy and during menopause may also influence disease activity.

Lifestyle habits that may help

Although genetics cannot be changed, healthy habits may reduce flare-ups and improve overall health.

These include:

• Following a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein
• Staying physically active
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Managing stress effectively

Smoking remains one of the most significant modifiable risk factors associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Alzheimer's Disease: Why Women Face Greater Risk

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, gradually damaging brain cells responsible for memory, thinking, and behavior.

Women account for a larger proportion of Alzheimer's cases, partly because they generally live longer than men. However, age alone does not explain the difference.

Several health conditions and lifestyle factors also increase risk, including:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol use
• Physical inactivity
• Social isolation

How to support long-term brain health

Although Alzheimer's cannot always be prevented, research suggests several habits may help lower the risk or delay cognitive decline.

These include:

• Exercising regularly
• Controlling blood pressure and blood sugar
• Staying mentally active through reading, puzzles, or learning new skills
• Maintaining strong social connections
• Eating a balanced, heart-healthy diet

Brain health is closely connected to cardiovascular health, making healthy lifestyle choices beneficial for both.

Why Prevention Is Important Throughout a Woman's Life

One important takeaway is that these conditions often develop gradually over many years.

Preventive healthcare should not begin only after menopause or retirement. Building healthy habits earlier in life including regular exercise, balanced nutrition, routine medical checkups, and avoiding smoking can significantly reduce the risk of chronic disease later on.

Regular screenings and discussions with healthcare providers also play a critical role in identifying risk factors before symptoms appear.

The Business Case for Preventive Healthcare

Beyond personal health, chronic diseases carry substantial economic consequences. Osteoporosis-related fractures, autoimmune disorders, dementia, and cancer can lead to increased healthcare costs, reduced workforce participation, and greater caregiving demands.

For employers, insurers, and healthcare organizations, investing in preventive health education and early detection programs can improve employee well-being while helping reduce long-term medical expenses. As populations age, prevention is becoming not only a public health priority but also a strategic investment in workforce productivity and healthcare sustainability.

Women's health involves far more than reproductive care. Conditions such as osteoporosis, thyroid cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease affect women disproportionately because of biological, hormonal, and lifestyle factors.

While not every risk can be eliminated, many can be reduced through healthy habits, routine screenings, and early medical intervention. Understanding these risks empowers women to make informed decisions that support healthier aging and improve quality of life for years to come.

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Simple Wellness Habits Every Family Can Practice for a Healthier Life

Simple Wellness Habits Every Family Can Practice for a Healthier Life

Family life rarely slows down, especially when you're in your 40s and beyond. Many adults are balancing careers, raising teenagers, supporting aging parents, managing household responsibilities, and trying to make time for themselves. In the middle of these demands, personal well-being often slips to the bottom of the priority list.

The good news is that better health doesn't always require expensive gym memberships, strict diets, or major lifestyle changes. In many cases, lasting wellness comes from small, consistent habits that fit naturally into everyday routines.

These simple wellness habits every family can practice are practical, affordable, and realistic. More importantly, they encourage healthier living for every generation, from young children to grandparents, while helping adults build habits that support healthy aging.

Small Wellness Habits Make a Big Difference

It's easy to assume that improving your health means making dramatic changes overnight. However, research consistently shows that lasting results often come from gradual, sustainable improvements rather than short-term efforts.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), healthy aging depends on maintaining physical and mental capacity throughout life. Daily habits, including regular movement, nutritious eating, quality sleep, and meaningful social connections, all contribute to long-term well-being.

For adults over 40, these habits become even more important as metabolism, muscle mass, and recovery naturally begin to change with age.

Start the Day with a Nourishing Breakfast

Breakfast remains one of the easiest opportunities to fuel the body for the day ahead.

A balanced morning meal that includes protein, fiber, and healthy fats can help stabilize blood sugar, improve concentration, and reduce the temptation to reach for sugary snacks later in the day.

Simple breakfast ideas include:

• Oatmeal topped with fresh fruit and nuts
• Whole grain toast with eggs and avocado
• Greek yogurt with berries and seeds
• Vegetable omelet with whole wheat bread

Families don't need elaborate meals. Even a simple breakfast eaten together a few times a week can strengthen routines and encourage healthier choices.

Move Together Every Day

Exercise doesn't always have to happen in a gym.

One of the most effective ways to stay active is to make movement part of family life.

Consider activities such as:

• Evening neighborhood walks
• Weekend bike rides
• Gardening
• Dancing to favorite music
• Playing badminton or basketball
• Walking the dog

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening exercises. Children also benefit from regular daily movement to support healthy growth and development.

The goal isn't perfection. It's consistency.

Prioritize Sleep as a Family

Sleep often becomes the first sacrifice during busy weeks, yet it plays a vital role in physical health, emotional resilience, and cognitive function.

Adults who consistently get enough quality sleep may experience:

• Better concentration
• Improved mood
• Stronger immune function
• Lower risk of chronic diseases
• More energy throughout the day

Simple ways to improve sleep include limiting screen time before bed, keeping bedrooms cool and quiet, and maintaining consistent sleep schedules, even on weekends.

Children also benefit from predictable bedtime routines, which can help improve behavior and learning.

Build Meals Around Whole Foods

Healthy eating doesn't require following the latest diet trend.

Instead, focus on eating more whole foods while reducing highly processed options.

A balanced family meal might include:

• Lean protein such as fish, chicken, tofu, or beans
• Brown rice or other whole grains
• Colorful vegetables
• Fresh fruit for dessert

In the Philippines, incorporating local produce like malunggay, squash, tomatoes, kangkong, bananas, papaya, and sweet potatoes can make meals both nutritious and budget-friendly.

The emphasis should be on progress rather than perfection. Enjoying occasional treats is part of a balanced lifestyle.

Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

Many adults underestimate how much water they need.

Even mild dehydration can affect concentration, energy levels, and physical performance.

Simple habits that encourage hydration include:

• Keeping a reusable water bottle nearby
• Drinking water before meals
• Choosing water over sugary beverages
• Serving fruit-infused water for variety

Older adults may become less sensitive to thirst, making regular hydration even more important.

Protect Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Wellness extends beyond physical health.

Stress from work, finances, caregiving, and family responsibilities can gradually affect emotional well-being if left unmanaged.

Healthy coping strategies include:

• Taking short breaks during busy days
• Practicing deep breathing
• Journaling
• Spending time outdoors
• Reading
• Talking openly with trusted family members or friends

For many families, simply setting aside uninterrupted time to connect each day can strengthen relationships and reduce feelings of isolation.

Make Family Meals a Daily Ritual

Sharing meals offers benefits that extend beyond nutrition.

Research has linked regular family meals with healthier eating habits, stronger communication, and improved emotional well-being among both children and adults.

The conversation matters as much as the food.

Try keeping phones away from the table and encouraging everyone to share something positive about their day.

These moments help create lasting family traditions while fostering meaningful connections.

Schedule Preventive Health Checkups

Many health conditions become more common after age 40, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol. Regular medical checkups can help identify potential concerns before they become more serious.

Depending on your age, family history, and individual risk factors, your healthcare provider may recommend:

• Blood pressure monitoring
• Blood sugar testing
• Cholesterol screening
• Eye examinations
• Dental checkups
• Cancer screenings appropriate for your age and sex

Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to maintain long-term health and quality of life.

Spend More Time Outdoors

Nature offers benefits that are easy to overlook.

Even a short walk in a nearby park or spending time in the garden can help reduce stress, improve mood, and encourage physical activity.

Sunlight also supports the body's natural production of vitamin D, which plays a role in bone health and immune function. While moderate sun exposure can be beneficial, it's still important to protect your skin with appropriate clothing, shade, or sunscreen during periods of intense sunlight.

Limit Screen Time and Be Present

Technology keeps families connected, but excessive screen use can reduce opportunities for face-to-face interaction, movement, and quality sleep.

Consider creating simple household guidelines, such as:

• No phones during meals
• Device-free family time in the evening
• Reading before bedtime instead of scrolling
• Outdoor activities on weekends

These small boundaries can improve communication and encourage healthier daily routines.

Wellness Is Built One Habit at a Time

Many people postpone healthy living until they have more time, more money, or the "perfect" plan. In reality, wellness grows from ordinary choices repeated consistently.

Choosing water instead of soda, taking a walk after dinner, preparing more meals at home, or getting to bed 30 minutes earlier may seem minor on their own. Over months and years, these habits can contribute to better physical health, greater emotional resilience, and a higher quality of life.

For families with adults in their 40s and beyond, these routines also set a powerful example for younger generations. Children often learn lifelong habits by watching the adults around them, making everyday choices an opportunity to shape healthier futures.

Simple wellness habits every family can practice don't require major lifestyle overhauls. They begin with everyday decisions that support physical health, emotional well-being, and stronger family connections.

Whether it's sharing a nutritious meal, taking an evening walk, prioritizing sleep, or scheduling preventive health checkups, these small actions can add up over time. For adults in midlife and beyond, investing in these habits is not just about adding years to life. It's about adding more vitality, independence, and meaningful moments to the years ahead.

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Nutrition Month 2026: Building Family Wellness Beyond Healthy Meals

Nutrition Month 2026: Building Family Wellness Beyond Healthy Meals

June 29, 2026

Every July, Nutrition Month reminds Filipinos to pay closer attention to healthy eating. But in 2026, the conversation has become much bigger than planning balanced meals. With climate change affecting food production, rising grocery prices, and changing family routines, staying healthy now requires a more complete approach to wellness.

This year's Nutrition Month theme, "Nutrisyon at Kalikasan, Ating Pangalagaan!", underscores the close relationship between environmental sustainability and personal health. As Filipino households continue adapting to unpredictable weather and economic challenges, building family resilience means supporting wellness at every stage of life, not just during mealtime.

Climate Change Is Reshaping Family Nutrition

For years, nutrition experts have encouraged families to fill their plates with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other nutrient-rich foods. While these recommendations remain essential, putting them into practice has become increasingly difficult for many households.

Climate-related disruptions continue to impact agriculture, food supply chains, and the affordability of fresh produce. At the same time, busy work schedules, school responsibilities, and rising living expenses often leave little room for carefully planned meals.

As a result, many families find themselves balancing healthy eating goals with the realities of everyday life.

Family Wellness Starts With Everyday Healthy Habits

Nutrition Month activities often focus on children, but maintaining good health is a shared responsibility within every household.

Parents and caregivers influence their children's eating habits, routines, and lifestyle choices. Yet adults also face their own wellness challenges. Long working hours, daily stress, insufficient sleep, and limited time for self-care can gradually affect overall health.

Supporting the entire family means encouraging healthy habits that go beyond food alone. Regular exercise, proper hydration, quality sleep, preventive healthcare, and balanced nutrition all work together to strengthen long-term wellness.

Different Life Stages Have Different Nutritional Needs

Every member of the family has unique nutritional requirements.

Children need consistent support for healthy growth, strong immunity, and digestive wellness as they navigate school, sports, and other daily activities. Adults, meanwhile, often focus on maintaining energy levels, supporting circulation, protecting their bodies from oxidative stress, and promoting healthy aging.

Recognizing these changing needs allows families to make more informed wellness choices throughout every stage of life.

Nutritional Support for Kids and Adults

To help address varying nutritional needs, LAC Philippines offers wellness solutions designed for both children and adults.

Supporting Children's Immunity and Gut Health

For younger family members, LAC ImmuGuard™ Junior combines immune and digestive support in a convenient lychee-flavored jelly stick.

Each serving contains Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, Grape Seed Extract, and 300 million probiotics, including L. Casei and L. Johnsonii. Together, these nutrients help support children's immune defenses while promoting digestive balance, providing a strong foundation for everyday wellness, learning, and active play.

Promoting Healthy Aging and Circulation for Adults

Adults looking to support long-term wellness may benefit from LAC Masquelier® French Pine Bark Extract.

Made with MASQUELIER's® Original OPCs sourced from authentic French Pine Bark Extract, the supplement delivers three complementary benefits. It helps protect the body against free radical damage, supports healthy blood circulation, and contributes to collagen health.

Unlike conventional antioxidant supplements that primarily target oxidative stress, this formulation also promotes healthy, flexible blood vessels that efficiently deliver oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Good circulation supports the function of vital organs, aids recovery, and helps maintain overall vitality.

Its collagen-supporting properties also contribute to healthier skin, connective tissues, and blood vessels, offering a more comprehensive approach to everyday wellness.

Supplements Work Best Alongside a Healthy Lifestyle

While nutritional supplements can help bridge dietary gaps, they are most effective when combined with healthy daily habits.

Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of water, and prioritizing preventive healthcare remain the foundation of overall well-being.

Rather than replacing nutritious meals, supplements can complement an already healthy lifestyle and help families meet their changing nutritional needs.

Looking Beyond Nutrition Month

Nutrition Month 2026 serves as an important reminder that family health extends beyond what's served at the dining table.

As climate change continues to influence food security and daily living, resilience begins with consistent wellness practices that support every member of the household. By combining nutritious food, healthy routines, and appropriate nutritional support when needed, Filipino families can be better prepared for today's challenges while building a healthier future together.

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Best Foods for Cold, Sore Throat, and Flu Recovery

Best Foods for Cold, Sore Throat, and Flu Recovery

June 19, 2026

Best Foods to Eat When You Have a Cold, Sore Throat, or Flu, According to a Nutrition Expert

The rainy season often brings cooler weather, cozy evenings, and unfortunately, a surge in colds, sore throats, and flu cases. If you've ever lost your appetite while battling a stuffy nose, fever, or painful throat, you're not alone. When you're feeling under the weather, eating can feel like a chore. But according to a nutrition expert, getting the right nourishment is one of the most important things you can do to support your recovery.

While many people focus on rest and medication, proper nutrition plays a critical role in helping the body fight infection, stay hydrated, and regain strength. Choosing foods that are gentle on the body while providing essential nutrients can make a significant difference in how quickly you bounce back.

When you're sick, several factors can affect your desire to eat. A blocked nose can dull your sense of smell and taste, while fever can cause dehydration and dry mouth. Inflamed throat tissues can also make swallowing uncomfortable.

Despite these challenges, maintaining adequate nutrition is essential.

According to Dr. Maricar Esculto-Khan, a medical and clinical nutrition specialist at top Philippine hospital Makati Medical Center, people recovering from illness need enough calories, nutrients, and fluids to support their immune system and speed up healing.

"A sick person needs the calories, nutrients, and fluids to boost their immune system, prevent dehydration, reduce inflammation, increase energy, and hasten healing," explains Dr. Esculto-Khan.

She also challenges a common saying many grew up hearing.

"The old wives' advice to 'Feed a cold, starve a fever' should be revised to 'Feed a cold AND a fever.' Eating the right foods are critical to your recovery."

Best Foods for a Sore Throat

A sore throat, also known as pharyngitis, can make even swallowing water uncomfortable. Since staying hydrated and nourished is crucial, choosing foods that are soft and soothing can help ease discomfort.

Warm Soups and Broths

Traditional Filipino comfort foods are among the best options during this stage of illness.

Dr. Esculto-Khan recommends:

• Chicken tinola
• Beef nilaga
• Vegetable broth such as bulanglang and law-uy
• Salabat with honey

These warm dishes can help soothe irritated throat tissues while providing fluids and nutrients.

Soft and Easy-to-Swallow Foods

Foods with a smooth texture are often easier to tolerate when the throat is inflamed.

Good options include:

• Arroz caldo
• Bananas
• Scrambled eggs

These choices provide energy and nourishment without causing additional throat irritation.

Can You Eat Ice Cream with a Sore Throat?

Surprisingly, yes.

Many people believe cold foods should be avoided during illness, but Dr. Esculto-Khan says cold treats can actually provide relief.

"Ice water and popsicle or ice cream can have a numbing effect and help ease the pain."

However, she advises choosing options that are lower in sugar since excessive sugar intake may contribute to inflammation.

What to Eat When You Have a Common Cold

The common cold is one of the most widespread respiratory infections, especially during the rainy season. It often begins with a sore throat before progressing to nasal congestion, sneezing, and mucus production.

Stay Hydrated with Vitamin C-Rich Foods

Proper hydration helps the body flush out viruses and supports overall recovery.

Dr. Esculto-Khan recommends consuming:

• Oranges
• Lemons
• Other citrus fruits
• Ginger tea
• Warm broths
• Plenty of water

Additionally, citrus fruits provide vitamin C, a nutrient known for supporting immune function.

Try Spicy Soups for Congestion Relief

If you can tolerate spicy food, it may help temporarily clear blocked nasal passages.

A hot bowl of tom yum soup, for example, can help loosen mucus and make breathing feel easier.

Bland but Filling Meals

When food doesn't taste quite the same because of congestion, simple dishes can still provide the energy your body needs.

Some recommended options include:

• Lugaw
• Rice porridge
• Oatmeal

These meals are easy on the stomach while helping you stay full and nourished.

Flu Recovery Foods That Help You Regain Strength

Influenza often comes with more severe symptoms than the common cold. Fever, body aches, headaches, sore throat, cough, and fatigue can leave you feeling completely drained.

During this time, hydration and adequate calorie intake become even more important.

Fluids That Support Recovery

Dr. Esculto-Khan suggests incorporating:

• Chicken broth
• Beef broth
• Vegetable broth
• Ginger tea
• Peppermint tea
• Coconut water
• Popsicles

These options help replenish fluids while providing comfort during recovery.

The BRAT Diet for Sensitive Stomachs

When illness affects your appetite or causes food to taste unusual, bland foods can be easier to tolerate.

One commonly recommended approach is the BRAT Diet, which includes:

• Bananas
• Rice
• Applesauce
• Toast

These foods are gentle on the digestive system and can provide quick energy.

For protein, Dr. Esculto-Khan recommends small portions of chicken or fish, which are easier to digest while supporting muscle recovery and immune function.

Small Meals Can Make a Big Difference

One of the most common mistakes people make when they're sick is forcing themselves to eat large meals.

Instead, Dr. Esculto-Khan recommends taking a gentler approach.

"Consume small, frequent meals and sips of water instead of forcing yourself to eat the way you normally would."

This strategy allows the body to receive nutrients without overwhelming an already stressed digestive system.

The Bottom Line

Whether you're dealing with a sore throat, a stubborn cold, or the flu, the right food choices can help make recovery more comfortable. Warm soups, hydrating beverages, vitamin C-rich fruits, soft foods, and nutrient-dense meals can provide the nourishment your body needs while supporting immune function.

While medications and rest remain important, don't underestimate the power of food as part of your recovery plan. Listening to your body's needs, staying hydrated, and choosing comforting, nutritious meals can help you get back on your feet sooner and feel better throughout the healing process.

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Health Benefits of Reading: How a Daily Book Habit Can Boost Brain and Body Wellness

Health Benefits of Reading: How a Daily Book Habit Can Boost Brain and Body Wellness

June 15, 2026

In an age dominated by short videos, endless scrolling, and constant digital distractions, sitting down with a good book may seem like a simple pleasure. But according to health experts, reading regularly offers benefits that go far beyond entertainment.

From improving brain function and memory to reducing stress and even supporting longevity, developing a reading habit can be one of the easiest ways to invest in your overall well-being. Whether you enjoy mystery novels, romance stories, biographies, or self-help books, turning a few pages each day could have a meaningful impact on both your mental and physical health.

Reading Is a Powerful Workout for the Brain

Experts have long emphasized the importance of keeping the brain active, and reading is one of the most effective ways to do it.

According to Dr. Cymbeline Perez-Santiago, Neurologist and Head of the Neurology Unit at top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center, reading engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously.

"Experts describe reading a book as a full-brain workout," says Dr. Perez-Santiago.

Research continues to support this idea. A 2020 study found that increased gray matter in the left superior temporal cortex, a region associated with cognitive function, was linked to stronger reading performance among children. For older adults, regularly engaging the brain through reading may help delay cognitive decline while supporting mental and physical health.

Can Reading Help You Live Longer?

The benefits of reading may extend beyond brain health.

A 2017 survey that followed more than 3,000 adults over a 12-year period found that individuals who regularly read books experienced a 20 percent reduction in mortality risk compared to non-readers.

Another study conducted by Yale University reported that people who spent at least 30 minutes reading each day gained an average of 23 additional months of life expectancy.

While reading alone is not a guarantee of a longer life, researchers believe the cognitive stimulation and stress-reducing effects of reading contribute to healthier aging.

Reading Builds Knowledge, Vocabulary, and Empathy

Most people associate reading with learning, and for good reason.

Books expose readers to new ideas, experiences, and perspectives, helping expand vocabulary and general knowledge. These benefits can be valuable in academic settings, career development, and everyday communication.

Beyond intellectual growth, reading can also strengthen emotional intelligence.

Dr. Perez-Santiago explains that reading helps develop empathy by encouraging readers to understand the thoughts, emotions, and motivations of different characters.

Experts refer to this as the "theory of mind," a set of social and cognitive skills that allows individuals to build meaningful relationships, navigate social situations, and better understand others.

Why Books Engage the Mind Differently

Unlike videos or image-based content, books require readers to actively participate in the storytelling process.

When reading, the brain creates mental images, interprets emotions, and connects ideas using imagination. This active engagement stimulates cognitive processes that may not be exercised as deeply through passive forms of entertainment.

"Books, particularly long-form content, train us to focus and pay attention at a time when the digital world's fast-paced, short-form content has reduced our attention span," Dr. Perez-Santiago explains.

In addition to improving concentration, reading regularly can strengthen memory, sharpen analytical thinking, and improve writing skills.

Why Fewer Filipinos Are Reading Books

Despite the many benefits of reading, fewer Filipinos are making time for books.

According to a national readership survey commissioned by the National Book Development Board in 2023, only 42 percent of Filipino adults reported reading non-school books within the previous 12 months. This marks a significant decline from the 80 percent recorded in 2017.

The rise of social media, streaming platforms, and digital entertainment has made it more challenging for many people to maintain a consistent reading habit.

However, experts believe that even small adjustments can help individuals rediscover the joy of reading.

Simple Ways to Read More Every Day

Building a reading habit does not require hours of free time.

One practical strategy is to keep a book within easy reach. Having a book in your bag, car, office desk, or bedside table makes it easier to read during idle moments throughout the day.

Dr. Perez-Santiago recommends using waiting times productively, whether you're at a clinic, bank, or meeting location.

For those who feel overwhelmed by lengthy novels, starting with short stories, novellas, or quick reads can make the habit more approachable.

"The trick is to make it an enjoyable experience, something to look forward to," she says.

She also encourages readers to let go of rigid rules. There's no requirement to finish a book within a specific timeframe or to complete one title before starting another. Reading at your own pace can make the experience more sustainable and enjoyable.

A Few Pages a Day Can Make a Difference

Reading is often viewed as a hobby, but growing research suggests it can also be a valuable wellness practice. From supporting brain health and emotional development to improving focus and potentially contributing to a longer life, the benefits are difficult to ignore.

In a world filled with constant distractions, making time for a few pages each day could be one of the simplest ways to care for your mind and body. Whether it's five minutes before bed or half an hour during your commute, every chapter brings an opportunity to learn, relax, and invest in your long-term well-being.

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Everyday Destinations, Year-Long Returns in Vista Manors Vertical Villages

Everyday Destinations, Year-Long Returns in Vista Manors Vertical Villages

June 11, 2026

Midtown Towers in Cagayan de Oro places residents at the center of an emerging urban destination, where access to business districts, commercial hubs, and everyday conveniences supports a lifestyle shaped by connectivity, opportunity, and long-term value.

The Philippines has always been a country of destinations. Across 7,641 islands, its geography has shaped how Filipinos travel and trade across regions. What was once understood mainly through leisure is now becoming a lifestyle: cities and corridors are no longer only visited but chosen for study, residence, and return throughout the year. The archipelago is evolving into a network of everyday destinations, where movement creates a measurable need for well-located developments.

Tourism remains an indicator of this momentum. In 2025, the Philippines recorded 6.48 million inbound arrivals, including foreign visitors and returning Overseas Filipinos, while generating an estimated PHP 694 billion in travel receipts, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT). Beyond arrivals, DOT also emphasized value creation, domestic travel, enterprise connectivity, employment generation, workforce skills, and service standards in the National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028.

From leisure locations to lifestyle destinations

Valencia Residences in Mactan reflects the importance of well-positioned vertical villages within growth corridors, offering proximity to employment centers, transport networks, and lifestyle destinations that continue to attract residents and investors alike.

This breakthrough is expanding beyond beach holidays and seasonal travel. The Philippines is being positioned as a destination for meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) where business mobility creates structured, higher-value travel patterns. In 2025, Tourism Promotions Board initiatives brought delegates to Clark, Cebu, Bohol, and Davao to showcase the country's readiness to host large-scale events and international gatherings.

These destinations are not merely visited for the weekend: they become platforms for travel, conferences, training, trade shows, and professional networking. As more cities and corridors host business events, demand naturally grows for nearby accommodations, flexible residences, and managed communities that support brief visits and extended stays.

Educational epicenters and career corridors

Situated near educational institutions and thriving city centers in Bay, Laguna, The Upstate responds to the growing demand for residences that support students, young professionals, and families seeking a practical address close to their daily pursuits.

Alongside tourism and MICE, education generates another form of sustained mobility. University towns attract students, faculty, reviewers, medical trainees, and early-career professionals who need safe places to live near their daily routines. The Commission on Higher Education listed 2,334 higher education institutions nationwide as of 2025, underscoring the scale of the national academic network and the housing requirements around campuses and learning districts.

The same pattern can be seen around industrial parks, IT-BPM hubs, logistics corridors, and economic zones. PEZA reported that its 2025 investment approvals reached PHP 261 billion across 314 new and expansion projects, covering manufacturing, utilities, facilities, and industrial developments. These initiatives were assessed to generate nearly 79,000 jobs, underscoring that employment centers outside traditional cores can create demand for housing near workplaces.

For students starting new chapters and professionals pursuing first careers, location becomes a priority. A residence near offices, schools, transport hubs, and commercial centers can improve daily efficiency, reduce commute concerns, support productivity, and provide a stable setting for those in fast-growing cities.

The rise of residential demand

As business mobility and career opportunities expand across the country, more professionals are choosing residences that place them closer to workplaces, commercial districts, and the conveniences that support productivity and work-life balance.

The Philippines is not only a tourism market; it is a mobility market. Visitors arrive for vacation and conferences, students relocate for school, and professionals move to employment centers. Families seek regional strongholds, while OFWs look for properties to serve personal and investment pursuits.

Demand is not limited to one type of resident: it comes from short-term stays, long-term leases, end-use ownership, and real estate investment. A single growth center can serve several markets at once: travelers needing temporary accommodations, students needing semester-based housing, workers requiring convenient addresses, and investors seeking developments aligned with recurring residential requirements.

This convergence makes well-positioned condominiums increasingly relevant. Where movement is constant, housing demand must be flexible. Where cities continue to grow, residences must be practical. Where destinations become daily environments, communities must support comfort and continuity.

The vertical village advantage

In Vista Manors vertical villages, resort-inspired amenities such as swimming pools transform everyday living into relaxing experiences, bringing the comfort and leisure of a vacation destination closer to home.

Vista Manors responds to this changing landscape through vertical villages nationwide, positioned to bring resort living to regional markets. Its relevance lies in combining accessibility, lifestyle, livelihood, and investment potential within developments that support daily living while remaining attractive to various residential profiles.

For residents, the enduring value begins with everyday experience. Vista Manors offers vertical living where amenities are treated as extensions of home. Swimming pools, fitness facilities, and social environments help residents transition from work, study, or travel into rest and recreation.

This creates a practical lifestyle proposition: the convenience of condominiums, backed by the calm and character of resort destinations. It brings together the essentials of an emerging city and the ease of resort living, allowing residents to experience a setting that feels functional and flourishing.

Learn more about Vista Manors vertical villages. Visit www.vistamanors.com.ph and follow @VistaManorsOfficial.

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Turning 50? These 5 Vaccines Can Help Protect Your Health

Turning 50? These 5 Vaccines Can Help Protect Your Health

June 08, 2026

Reaching your 50s often comes with a greater focus on wellness. Many people start paying closer attention to their diet, exercise habits, and regular health screenings. But there's one important aspect of preventive healthcare that is often overlooked: adult vaccination.

While vaccines are commonly associated with childhood immunizations, health experts stress that staying up to date with recommended vaccines becomes even more important as we age. As the body's immune system naturally weakens over time, older adults can become more vulnerable to serious infections and complications.

According to Ryan Raymond Y. Bautista, MD, of leading Philippine hospital Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed), vaccines remain one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from potentially life-threatening illnesses.

"Vaccines were created to help you build resistance against illnesses that could land you in the hospital, render you disabled, or threaten your life," explains Dr. Bautista. "As we grow older, our immune system weakens, whether due to age or diseases like cancer, autoimmune disorders, and HIV. Vaccinations not only protect us; they protect others too by preventing the spread of contagious viral and bacterial infections."

If you're 50 or older, here are five important vaccines that healthcare professionals recommend discussing with your doctor.

Why Vaccinations Matter More After Age 50

Aging affects how efficiently the immune system responds to infections. This means illnesses that may seem manageable for younger adults can become much more serious for older individuals.

Vaccinations help reduce the risk of hospitalization, severe complications, and long-term health issues. They also contribute to community protection by limiting the spread of infectious diseases to family members, friends, and vulnerable populations.

1. Flu Vaccine: Your Annual Defense Against Influenza

The flu may seem like a routine seasonal illness, but for older adults, it can lead to serious complications.

In the Philippines, flu season typically occurs between June and November, making the months from February to June an ideal time to receive an annual influenza vaccination.

One reason yearly vaccination is necessary is because influenza viruses constantly evolve. Combined with age-related declines in immunity, this makes seniors particularly susceptible to infection.

Common flu symptoms include:

• High fever
• Chills
• Body aches
• Sore throat
• Runny nose

Influenza spreads through respiratory droplets released when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or speak. It can also spread through contaminated surfaces.

While most people recover within a week, Dr. Bautista cautions that influenza can sometimes progress into more severe conditions.

"Though you can expect to get better in about a week, the flu can progress to pneumonia, bronchitis, and the worsening of pre-existing conditions like asthma and heart disease," he says.

2. RSV Vaccine: Protection Against a Common but Serious Respiratory Illness

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is often mistaken for the common cold because many of its symptoms overlap.

These include:

• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Persistent cough

However, RSV can become much more serious, especially in older adults.

Warning signs include:

• Rapid breathing
• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Chest retractions during breathing

RSV-related complications may include pneumonia, asthma flare-ups, and middle ear infections.

"The RSV vaccine is available locally through hospitals and private clinics," says Dr. Bautista. "Because it's not considered an annual vaccine, at-risk adults aged 50-74 years old and the elderly aged 75 and up can do with a single dose."

3. Pneumococcal Vaccine: Guarding Against Pneumonia and More

Many people associate pneumococcal disease solely with pneumonia, but the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae can also cause severe infections such as meningitis and sepsis.

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce these risks.

There are two main categories of pneumococcal vaccines:

Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines (PCVs)

These include:

• PCV13
• PCV15
• PCV20

Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23)

This vaccine provides protection against 23 strains of pneumococcal bacteria.

"The pneumococcal vaccine is recommended for adults aged 50 years old and above," explains Dr. Bautista. "I advise those who are immunocompromised to receive shots for these vaccines, and those aged 65 and up who are in relatively good health to get one dose of PVC20, or one dose of PCV15 followed by one dose of PPSV23."

4. Shingles Vaccine: Reducing the Risk of Painful Flare-Ups

Shingles is a painful condition caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus responsible for chickenpox.

Its most recognizable symptom is a painful, burning rash that often appears on the torso or face. While many people assume that experiencing shingles once provides lifelong immunity, that isn't always the case.

A second episode, though uncommon, can still occur.

"Given in two doses, the shingles vaccine protects you from the varicella-zoster virus by nearly 100 percent, and by about 85 percent four years after your shots," says Dr. Bautista. "In case you get shingles again despite the vaccines, expect to experience less severe symptoms."

For adults over 50, vaccination can significantly lower the risk of both shingles and its lingering nerve pain complications.

5. Tdap Vaccine: Long-Term Protection Against Three Serious Diseases

The Tdap vaccine protects against:

• Tetanus
• Diphtheria
• Pertussis (whooping cough)

Although many people receive this vaccine during childhood, immunity decreases over time, making booster shots necessary.

Health experts recommend receiving a Tdap booster every 10 years.

Each disease carries serious health risks:

Tetanus

Affects the nervous system and is caused by bacteria commonly found in soil, dirt, and animal waste.

Diphtheria

Can make breathing and swallowing difficult while potentially damaging the heart, kidneys, and nerves.

Pertussis

Triggers severe coughing fits that can be particularly dangerous for older adults.

"The Tdap vaccine can protect you against tetanus and diphtheria by 95 percent, and pertussis by 70 percent," says Dr. Bautista. "Best of all, it is convenient. You do not need to have the shot annually, just every decade after one shot."

Healthy Aging Starts With Prevention

Living well beyond 50 isn't just about treating illness when it appears. It's about taking proactive steps to stay healthy, active, and independent for as long as possible.

Vaccinations remain one of the simplest and most effective preventive measures available today. Whether it's protecting yourself from seasonal flu, reducing the risk of pneumonia, or preventing painful shingles outbreaks, these vaccines can play a key role in maintaining quality of life as you age.

If you're entering your 50s or caring for aging loved ones, now may be the perfect time to review your vaccination status with your healthcare provider. A few simple shots today could help protect your health for years to come.

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