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Monitoring blood pressure at home can help reduce risk of brain stroke
Various international trials on blood pressure lowering and stroke prevention state that for every 5 mm Hg decrease in SBP, the expected risk reduction of stroke and heart attack incidence and mortality was 18% (95% confidence interval [CI], 12-24%) in individuals younger than 55 years, 9% (5-12%) in those aged 55-74 years, 9% (4-13%) in those aged 75-84 years, and 1% (-13; +12) in those aged 85 years and older.
A new data review, conducted by OMRON Healthcare Singapore, has revealed that monitoring blood pressure at home can help in reducing risk of brain stroke. According to the review, people who monitor their blood pressure at home are more likely to detect and manage hypertension – one of the leading causes of stroke.
The review is based on an active user base of around 340 people, and more than 43,000 blood pressure readings across Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines and Vietnam over the period from November 2021 to October 2022.This base consists of users who are regularly using OMRON Bluetooth-connected digital BP monitoring device and tracking their blood pressure with the OMRON connect app, as well as OMRON’s Health Gift program within the app.
The monitoring and analysis of their readings over the pre- and post-registration period (3 months before, and the 1st, 3rd, 6th, and 12th month) reveals average Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP) improvement of 10mmHg among hypertensive people with a baseline SBP of 135mmHg and above, within 12 months. The study also shows that 80% of this group of users were able to control their blood pressure, with 55% achieving normal SBP by the 12th month of tracking.
Various international trials on blood pressure lowering and stroke prevention state that for every 5 mm Hg decrease in SBP, the expected risk reduction of stroke and heart attack incidence and mortality was 18% (95% confidence interval [CI], 12-24%) in individuals younger than 55 years, 9% (5-12%) in those aged 55-74 years, 9% (4-13%) in those aged 75-84 years, and 1% (-13; +12) in those aged 85 years and older.
Thus, the data review reiterates that home blood pressure monitoring and tracking with the help of an app help in identifying abnormal changes in blood pressure. If the changes are addressed and managed with the help of physicians, before they become severe, it can be an effective support for stroke prevention, especially among people who have a family history of hypertension or stroke.
“I believe that monitoring of blood pressure at home is an essential aspect of controlling hypertension and managing co-morbidities like stroke, heart attack, and dementia. Regular monitoring aided by accurate digital devices allows for early detection of potential health issues and empowers patients to take control of their own health by making informed decisions under the guidance of their physicians. It’s important to incorporate monitoring in your daily regime to achieve optimal health and prevent potential complications in the long run,” said Valery Feigin, Professor of Neurology & Epidemiology and Director of NISAN.
OMRON Healthcare, one of the leading players in home healthcare monitoring, has been at the forefront of promoting the importance of home blood pressure monitoring. The company has been developing innovative, connected, and affordable digital blood pressure monitoring devices that are being used by people across Asia Pacific to monitor their blood pressure at home. This year, the company celebrated the 50th anniversary of the launch of blood pressure monitors, and will continue to work towards its vision of contributing towards “zero cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease (zero events)” around the world.
“Digital home blood pressure monitoring is a game-changer in the fight against stroke. It starts with managing hypertension — stroke’s biggest risk factor,” says Yusuke Kato, General Manager, OMRON Healthcare Philippines. “Our devices are connected, accurate, and user-friendly, making it easy for people to monitor their blood pressure regularly and also keep their physicians and caregivers easily informed with the help of the OMRON connect app. This enables them to take more effective and timely decisions, rendering better management of their health and leading to fewer unexpected health events. Thus, helping us to drive our vision of “Going for Zero” events,” he added.
The added rewards to users via OMRON Health Gift program are recognized by the company as an effective tool to motivate users in building and keeping up a healthy habit of regular blood pressure monitoring.
Reports highlight that hypertension is the most powerful modifiable risk factors for stroke, heart attack, and dementia; lowering blood pressure substantially reduces the risk of morbidity and mortality. However, it continues to pose a significant burden in Asia, with poor awareness and undertreatment reported in many Asian countries and regions. It is estimated to cause nearly 3.7 million deaths each year in Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania. Considering the asymptomatic nature of hypertension and the significant disease burden, it is essential to measure blood pressure regularly. Home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) is recognized as a valuable tool to monitor blood pressure and facilitate effective detection of hypertension. Combined with the right drugs treatment, it can play a significant role in preventing stroke, heart attacks, and dementia.
To this end, OMRON has joined the mission to promote blood pressure screening through device donations via the May Measurement Month program. Since 2017, OMRON has donated approximately 23,000 units of blood pressure monitors to various medical associations of hypertension globally, to support screening and diagnosis.
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Sarap ng Pasko, Sarap ng Purefoods
Purefoods helps families celebrate cherished traditions, new additions this holiday season.
In a country of more than 7,600 islands, Christmas in the Philippines is celebrated in many ways, varying across the regions through traditions that have remained through generations, along with new iterations that reflect the growing diversity among Filipino families.
Today’s Christmas celebrations in Filipino households range from grand gatherings among extended families, along with OFW households, dual-income no kids (DINKs) couples, single parents, and same-gender partners who are marking the season in their own meaningful way. Through it all, the desire to gather, to share, and to connect remains at the heart of each celebration.
Feast for Filipino families
This holiday season, Purefoods recognizes both the traditions that have been passed down through generations, along with the new meaningful ones that we create along the way. Around the Noche Buena table, families remember the Christmases past, while embracing the present, and celebrating what brings them together.
Whether its recipes that have been handed down through many generations, or new dishes to celebrate the joy of togetherness, Purefoods provides a wide range of products to make every holiday meal more memorable.
As a legacy brand with generations-long trusted consistency in quality and taste, Purefoods products have long been a part of occasions that matter most to Filipino families. The different Purefoods products help make homecooked Noche Buena feasts easier and more enjoyable. What’s more, the products are easily available in supermarkets, groceries, and markets to support different regional traditions and unique family celebrations across the country.
As part of its mission to spread Christmas cheer, Purefoods turned the homecoming of OFWs into a full-blown holiday celebration this December, taking center stage at the newly refreshed Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 just as its new facilities officially opened. Seizing this landmark moment, the “Sarap ng Pasko, Sarap ng Purefoods” installation at the Arrival area and a dazzling LED display at the new Mezzanine Food Hall transformed the terminal into a festive gateway home, filling arrivals with warmth, joy, and inspiration to create new Christmas memories with their loved ones through food.
Food that is lovingly prepared and joyfully shared is at the core of every Christmas celebration. No matter how Filipino families celebrate, Purefoods helps bring the joy of the season to every table.
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Christmas reunions made more joyful with Magnolia Chicken Timplados, #SarapMadeEasy
Magnolia Chicken Timplados makes meals that are easy to prepare and comes in flavorful options, removing the stress out of meal preparation. Just cook and it’s ready to be served in minutes.
With the Christmas season in, one of the most anticipated moments for many people is the Christmas reunion – a time when family and friends gather to celebrate and reconnect. However, the idea of preparing a delicious Christmas feast can be overwhelming and can lead to stress. Between planning the menu, grocery shopping, and cooking, it’s easy to feel like the holidays are more about hustle than a joyful celebration.
That is why Magnolia Chicken Timplados makes meals that are easy to prepare and comes in flavorful options, removing the stress out of meal preparation. Just cook and it’s ready to be served in minutes! Whether it’s Fried Chicken or Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken, it is made with quality, real chicken, that’s sure to win hearts at any Christmas reunion feast, bringing families and friends together over meals filled with joy, flavor, and festive warmth.
- Fried Chicken: Magnolia Fried Chicken delivers golden, delicious and crispy goodness right to your Christmas table. A classic favorite because it is simple yet celebratory, Magnolia Fried Chicken captures the heart of Christmas cooking: togetherness, indulgence, and the joy of sharing something made with love. It is perfect for family feasts or holiday get-togethers with friends because it’s pre-marinated, just coat with breading and deep fry. It saves a lot of time and energy, keeping your cooking hassle-free.
- Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken: What better way to enjoy the holidays than by savoring an aromatic, hearty roasted chicken? Magnolia Smoked Pepper Roasted Chicken brings a classic favorite to an entirely new level! What makes it special is its bold yet balanced flavor – the smoky aroma mingling with sweet, caramelized skin, the sharp bite of pepper meeting the natural richness of roast chicken. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet sophisticated enough for entertaining guests. There’s no need to worry about the tiresome task of seasoning the chicken and marinating overnight, as it can be cooked straight in the oven or air fryer. It is a special delight for everyone to enjoy, especially during gatherings around the table with loved ones.
With ready to cook Magnolia Chicken Timplados, it’s possible to enjoy a delectable holiday meal without the chaos of traditional cooking. Sarap Super Moms and Timplanners can spend less time worrying about the kitchen, leaving more time to create happy and unforgettable moments to cherish with loved ones.
Lasapin ang #SarapMadeEasy meals this Christmas with Magnolia Chicken Timplados! #CountlessMomentsEndlessGoodness
To learn more about Magnolia Ready-to-Cook Chicken Timplados, visit magnoliachicken.com or follow Magnolia Chicken on social media.
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Sip the magic of Christmas with Seattle’s Best S’mores Ghirardelli Collection
Each drink captures the comforting spirit of Christmas with rich chocolate indulgence and a touch of sweetness that feels like a cozy holiday hug.
There’s something about S’mores that brings people together—melting chocolate, toasted marshmallows, and moments that feel like home. This holiday season, Seattle’s Best Coffee and Ghirardelli are turning that warmth into a cup with the S’mores Collection Made with Ghirardelli. Each drink captures the comforting spirit of Christmas with rich chocolate indulgence and a touch of sweetness that feels like a cozy holiday hug.
Starting November 2025, chocolate lovers can indulge in this limited-edition collection in Seattle’s Best Coffee stores nationwide and via GrabFood and FoodPanda.





What Makes the S’mores Collection Special?
- A Taste of Comfort – Inspired by the familiar joy of S’mores, each drink blends marshmallow sweetness, velvety chocolate, and bold coffee warmth for that fireside feeling—no campfire needed.
- Premium Collaboration – Made with Ghirardelli’s signature chocolate and Seattle’s Best bold espresso, delivering a smooth, indulgent coffee experience that feels festive and luxurious.
- Crafted for Every Craving – From hot to iced to blended, there’s a S’mores drink for every holiday mood, perfect for sharing cozy moments or treating yourself to something special.
Find Your Perfect Holiday Match
Whether you’re sipping by the tree, catching up with friends, or gifting yourself a well-deserved break, there’s a S’mores Collection drink for every kind of Christmas craving.
- Hot S’mores Ghirardelli – Cozy up with this comforting blend of Ghirardelli chocolate powder, rich espresso, and creamy marshmallow meringue, topped with a dark chocolate drizzle and crushed graham cracker. It’s Christmas warmth in a cup.
- Iced S’mores Ghirardelli – A refreshing yet indulgent twist that combines bold espresso, Ghirardelli chocolate, and half & half over ice, finished with marshmallow meringue and a graham cracker crunch.
- S’mores Javakula – A frozen holiday treat that blends Ghirardelli chocolate, marshmallow meringue, dark chocolate sauce, and graham cracker bits, perfect for cooling down while staying in the holiday spirit.
Make Your Holidays Sweeter
The Seattle’s Best Coffee x Ghirardelli S’mores Collection is available for a limited ti
me in all Seattle’s Best Coffee stores nationwide and via GrabFood and FoodPanda.
Indulge in the rich, chocolatey comfort of the holidays—warm, bold, and oh-so-delightful with every sip of Seattle’s Best Coffee’s S’mores Collection.
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