Understanding the health hazards of volcanic ashfall

Mount Kanlaon, one of the 24 active volcanoes in the Philippines erupted and spewed a  voluminous ash column up to 3,000 meters on December 09. The second eruption of  Kanlaon this year, the volcano in Negros released 4,638 tons of sulfur dioxide prior to its  eruption. 

Sitting on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” The Philippines is no stranger to volcanic activity. Another active volcano, the Taal volcano has recorded at least 38 eruptions in the last  450 years. The 2020 major eruption of Taal volcano blasted heavy ashfall into the air,  which reportedly reached as far as Metro Manila, Calabarzon, and Central Luzon. The  Department of Health has continuously warned the public about the health risks that are  associated with ashfall. 

Bell Kenz-Pharma Inc. Launches Program to Provide Essential Skills and Information to Filipinos

In the Philippines, where 8 out of 10 cardiac arrests occur outside hospitals, most often in the homes, with family members nearby but with little to no knowledge of lifesaving skills, being prepared can mean the difference between life and death. Access to essential life saving knowledge, like cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), remains a critical gap in many parts of the country. To address this, Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc, through its health initiative, Barangay BK, has embarked on a series of CPR trainings.