Liver health is often overlooked until serious symptoms appear but by then, it may already be too late. With millions of Filipinos at risk of developing liver-related conditions, a new initiative is making early detection more accessible and easier to prioritize.
A partnership between Essentiale Forte P and Mercury Drug Corporation is bringing free liver screening closer to communities nationwide, helping Filipinos take a more proactive approach to their health.
Why Liver Health Deserves More Attention
According to the Hepatology Society of the Philippines, around 18 million Filipinos are at risk of fatty liver disease. The challenge is that this condition often develops quietly, with little to no symptoms in its early stages.
Because of this, many individuals only discover liver issues once complications have already progressed. Limited access to screening has also made early detection difficult for a large portion of the population.
Free Liver Testing Now Available in Select Mercury Drug Stores
To address this gap, Essentiale Forte P has teamed up with Mercury Drug to roll out a Free Liver Test program available in selected branches nationwide.
The initiative runs throughout the year and aims to encourage Filipinos to monitor their liver health through regular screening and proper care management.
The test offered is an SGPT test, which measures liver enzyme levels through a simple blood sample. Elevated enzyme levels can indicate potential liver damage, making this test a crucial tool for early detection.
What to Expect From the Free Liver Test
The process is designed to be quick and accessible for everyday customers.
It begins with a short health assessment, where participants answer questions related to common risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension. This is followed by the actual SGPT test.
Afterward, participants are informed when their results will be available. Results are sent via email, along with an invitation for an on-site consultation where a doctor can explain the findings and recommend next steps.
All services under the program are offered free of charge, making it easier for more Filipinos to take that first step toward preventive care.
Experts Stress the Importance of Early Screening
Medical professionals continue to emphasize that the liver plays a critical role in overall health, performing hundreds of essential functions daily.
Dr. Anna Guia Limpoco of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians explained that liver enzymes typically remain inside liver cells. When the liver is damaged, these enzymes enter the bloodstream, which is why elevated SGPT levels can signal a problem.
She highlighted that regular screening, combined with a healthy lifestyle, is key to protecting liver health. This includes balanced nutrition, exercise, and mindful habits when it comes to alcohol consumption.
Supporting Liver Health Beyond Testing
In addition to screening, maintaining liver health may also involve proper supplementation. Products like Essentiale Forte P are designed to support liver cell repair and protection using phospholipids.
When paired with healthy lifestyle choices, these supplements may help improve liver function and reduce fat buildup more effectively than lifestyle changes alone.
Brand representatives also pointed out that everyday factors such as stress, diet, and existing conditions like obesity or type 2 diabetes can significantly impact liver health, making regular monitoring even more important.
Bringing Preventive Healthcare Closer to Communities
For Mercury Drug Corporation, the initiative aligns with its mission to make healthcare more accessible at the community level.
Company leaders shared that pharmacies are often the first point of contact for health concerns, making them an ideal place to offer preventive services like liver screening.
By collaborating with trusted healthcare partners, they aim to empower more Filipinos to take control of their well-being through early detection and informed health decisions.
Why You Should Take Advantage of This Program
With liver disease often going unnoticed until it becomes serious, programs like this offer a valuable opportunity to stay ahead of potential health risks.
If you have risk factors or simply want peace of mind, taking a quick, free test could make a significant difference in your long-term health.
For updates and participating branches, you can check the official pages of Essentiale PH and Mercury Drug.