G6PD Deficiency in Filipino Children1 in 10 Filipino Males — What Every Parent Must Know
G6PD deficiency is the most common genetic enzyme disorder in the Philippines. With the right knowledge, G6PD-positive children live completely normal, healthy lives. Two rules: no aspirin, no mothballs.
G6PD Triggers to Avoid — Print and Keep
Share this list with every doctor, dentist, and pharmacist who treats your child. Keep a copy in your child's wallet and school bag.
Aspirin
High RISKNever give aspirin to a G6PD child — available in some OTC pain products
Primaquine
High RISKMalaria medication — inform any doctor treating malaria
Nitrofurantoin
High RISKUsed in some UTI treatments — ask pharmacist to verify
Chloramphenicol
High RISKAntibiotic used in eye drops and infections — check all eye medications
Dapsone
High RISKUsed for skin conditions and leprosy treatment
Mothballs (Naphthalene)
High RISKCommon in Filipino homes for clothes storage — replace with cedar blocks immediately
Some Sulfa Antibiotics
Medium RISKAlways inform the doctor and pharmacist of G6PD status for any new prescription
Fava Beans
Medium RISKUncommon in standard Filipino diet but present in some imported foods
Always inform healthcare providers: Before any new prescription, surgery, or dental procedure, tell the doctor or dentist that your child has G6PD deficiency. Request that all medications be checked against the G6PD trigger list before dispensing.
Hemolytic Crisis — Go to ER If You See These Signs
A hemolytic crisis occurs when red blood cells destroy rapidly due to a trigger. It can develop quickly during illness.
Yellow eyes or yellowing of the skin (jaundice)
Very dark, tea-colored, or cola-colored urine
Sudden extreme paleness of the lips and skin
Unusual fatigue or weakness during any illness
Rapid or labored breathing without respiratory cause
Abdominal pain or back pain with sudden pallor
Go to the ER and state: "My child has G6PD deficiency"
This alerts staff to avoid certain medications and order CBC immediately
G6PD Children Live Completely Normal Lives
G6PD deficiency does not restrict your child's activities, education, or quality of life
Full Physical Activity
G6PD-positive children can play sports, run, swim, and be fully active. G6PD does not restrict any physical activity.
Normal Diet
Standard Filipino food — rice, chicken, fish, vegetables — is completely safe. Only fava beans should be avoided.
Normal Schooling
G6PD deficiency does not affect intelligence or learning ability. No academic restrictions apply.
Regular Vaccinations
All DOH EPI vaccines are safe for G6PD-positive children. Vaccination schedule is not modified.
Related Health Guides
Questions About G6PD?
Use MAIA to assess any illness symptoms in your G6PD-positive child. Always inform the doctor of G6PD status before any treatment.
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