How to Live with Diabetes Affordably in the Philippines

Managing diabetes seems daunting—particularly when considering costs. But in the Philippines, there are down-to-earth, affordable steps to remain healthy. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or have had the condition for years, having an understanding of your choices can enable you to manage your health with confidence and simplicity.

Begin with Early and Regular Screening

The first step toward good diabetes control is to know where you are at. Most Filipinos have undiagnosed diabetes, and they only discover this when complications such as vision difficulties or kidney problems arise. Early detection in the form of regular check-ups is paramount.

Fortunately, diabetes screening in the Philippines has become easier to access over the past few years. Private clinics, local health centers, and even mobile apps have begun offering low-cost or even free screening programs in urban and rural locations. The tests are quick, easy, and take a simple snapshot of your well-being.

Understand Your Test Options

There are a number of diabetes tests in the Philippines, and they all serve different purposes for diagnosis and monitoring:

• Fasting blood sugar test: Takes your glucose reading after 8 hours of not having eaten.
• Random blood sugar test: Can be done at any time of day and provides an overall estimate of your current levels.
• HbA1c test: Shows your average blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months.

If you’re managing diabetes, your doctor may recommend a mix of these to track progress. Most blood sugar tests in the Philippines are affordable, especially when done at public health centers or community clinics.

Lifestyle Changes That Don’t Cost a Fortune

Beyond medication and testing, managing diabetes involves everyday choices—many of which are budget-friendly:

• Eating healthy: You don’t have to spend a lot of money to eat healthy. Stick to fresh vegetables, brown rice, lean meats, and local fruits in moderation.
• Physical exercise: Walking, dancing, or even housework can reduce blood sugar and enhance insulin sensitivity.
• Managing stress: Excessive stress raises blood sugar. Prayer, quiet time, or simply sitting down and talking with friends and family can be very helpful.

These easy adjustments, accompanied by periodic check-ups, can work wonders in the long run.

Affordable Access to Care

Affordable diabetes management is achievable if you know where to find it. Government hospitals, barangay health centers, and facilities such as Nowserving PH provide tools, advice, and referrals to guide you along the way. Numerous of these services are also accessible online, cutting down travel time and expenses.

By taking smart decisions and working with available resources, you can lead a rich, active life—despite diabetes.