Metro Pacific Health (MPH), the largest group of private hospitals in the Philippines and a part of the MVP group, is proud to present #DECODE Episode 4 entitled “The Not-So-Sweet Truth about Juvenile Diabetes”, a captivating and informative episode that explores the truth about “juvenile diabetes” or what is more commonly called today as Type 1 Diabetes. This episode features insights from renowned healthcare professionals, Dr. Ariel Ampil of Commonwealth Hospital and Medical Center, and Dr. May Uyking-Naranjo of Davao Doctors Hospital, along with Wilson Limon, founder of NIñOFRANCO and a person living with Type 1 Diabetes.

Juvenile diabetes, also known as Type 1 diabetes, has long been shrouded in myths and misconceptions. In this latest episode of #DECODE, Dr. Ariel Ampil, Dr. May Uyking-Naranjo, and Wilson Limon come together to dispel these myths and share their personal experiences. From tracing the origins of the term “diabetes mellitus” to clarifying the autoimmune nature of Type 1 diabetes, this episode promises to redefine what we know about this often misunderstood disease.

Viewers can expect to learn about the symptoms of juvenile diabetes, the importance of early detection, and the positive aspects of managing this condition. The episode aims to educate and empower individuals by providing valuable information and insights that can help them better understand and manage juvenile diabetes.

With Type 1 diabetes, one cause of it can be a haywire autoimmune reaction, such as the destruction of beta cells in the pancreas, leaving the body unable to properly produce insulin. While this can manifest in childhood, sometimes this process can take years to develop, leading to an onset of Type 1 diabetes even in young adulthood. As for symptoms, some of the common signs to watch out (as shared by Dr. Ampil and Dr. Uyking-Naranjo) include polyuria (increase in urination), polydipsia (excessive thirst), and polyphagia (frequent hunger pangs).

Speaking about his experience in the episode, Mr. Limon shares how proper management and guided medical treatment (such as the daily self-administration of insulin) have helped him take charge of his life even after the diagnosis. Dr. Ampil and Dr. Uyking-Naranjo also share blood tests and other diagnostic tests that can be ordered to identify if a patient may have diabetes.

“We are excited to release #DECODE Episode 4 and shed light on juvenile diabetes,” said Jessica Abaya, Chief Marketing and Chief Customer Experience Officer of Metro Pacific Health. “Our goal at MPH with these DECODE episodes is to strengthen our narrative that educates and empowers individuals, ultimately contributing to improved healthcare outcomes for those living with conditions such as juvenile diabetes. We look to continuing this meaningful tradition of communicating proactively this upcoming year to help Filipinos in their daily health journeys.”

Through various initiatives like #DECODE, Metro Pacific Health remains committed to providing expertise and care with compassion, as it operates 23 hospitals across the country. These hospitals include prestigious institutions like Makati Medical Center, Asian Hospital and Medical Center, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Riverside Medical Center, and Davao Doctors Hospital, among others. In addition to the hospitals, MPH also manages 28 outpatient care centers, 2 allied health colleges, and a centralized laboratory known as Medi Linx Laboratory.

For more information about Metro Pacific Health and to watch #DECODE Episode 4, visit our website at www.metropacifichealth.com. Join us in the journey to decode juvenile diabetes and spread awareness about this important health issue.

Watch and Share #DECODE Episode 4 here: https://www.facebook.com/metropacifichealth/videos/906561541106319