A heart for the Islands: The role of fixed-dose combination therapy in the Philippines’ fight against premature CVD deaths

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of premature mortality in the Philippines, disproportionately affecting low-income and underserved populations. Fixed-dose combination therapy, or the Polypill, has emerged as an evidence-based, cost-effective strategy for both primary and secondary prevention of CVD, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This article explores the relevance and potential impact of Polypill implementation within the Philippine healthcare system. With high rates of treatment non-adherence, fragmented care delivery, and barriers to medication access, the Polypill offers a simplified, once-daily regimen that improves adherence and reduces major cardiovascular events. Its integration into the country's Universal Health Care (UHC) framework could significantly reduce health disparities, prevent costly hospitalizations, and improve cardiovascular outcomes nationwide. Special attention is given to high-risk groups such as those with chronic kidney disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. We advocate for the inclusion of the Polypill in national treatment guidelines, essential medicines lists, and community health initiatives to address the growing burden of CVD in the Philippines. Broader adoption of this strategy can play a transformative role in enhancing cardiovascular health and reducing premature deaths in resource-limited settings.