CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The Department of Health (DOH) is intensifying efforts to raise awareness about cervical cancer, with strong emphasis on screening and prevention, especially among Central Luzon women.
DOH Central Luzon Center for Health Development Non-Communicable Diseases Cluster Development Management Officer Zyra Garcia explained that cervical cancer develops gradually and can be prevented with timely intervention.
“Cancer in the cervix starts in the cells of the cervix. It develops through a gradual change of cells that we call dysplasia. If it is not caught, it can lead to cancer,” she said.
Globally, cervical cancer ranks as the fourth most common cancer among women.
According to the World Health Organization, 94 percent of cervical cancer-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, including the Philippines.
“The highest number of cases and deaths are found in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, Central America, and Southeast Asia, where the Philippines is included,” Garcia added.
In the Philippines, an estimated 39.6 million women aged 15 and above are at risk. Annually, 7,897 new cases are diagnosed, with cervical cancer being the second most common cancer among Filipino women aged 15 to 44.
The disease is primarily caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a common infection transmitted through sexual contact.
“HPV or Human Papilloma Virus is a common infection that can lead to cervical cancer if it is not treated. Continuous infection of HPV in the cervix, if untreated, can lead to 95 percent of cervical cancer cases,” Garcia noted.
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing cervical cancer, including early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, sexually transmitted infections, multiple pregnancies, a weakened immune system, and long-term contraceptive use without medical consultation.
“Unusual bleeding after intercourse or menopause, pain during and after intercourse, changes in vaginal discharge including foul odor or color, chest pain or discomfort, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, loss of appetite, and swelling or pain in the feet are symptoms that should be taken seriously,” Garcia said.
Meanwhile, she emphasized that prevention starts with awareness and lifestyle choices.
“Get vaccinated against HPV to avoid cervical cancer, avoid smoking, maintain a healthy lifestyle, use protective equipment such as condoms, maintain body cleanliness, and limit the number of sexual partners,” she advised.
Screening, according to DOH, remains a vital tool in the early detection of cervical cancer and in increasing survival rates.
Women aged 30 to 65 years old are encouraged to undergo routine screening.
Those living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus are advised to be screened every three years, while the general population can undergo screening every five years.
“Early detection is better than treatment since it leads to faster intervention and better health outcomes,” Garcia emphasized.
She also discussed the methods of screening that are available, including pap smear and HPV testing.
To make testing more accessible, Garcia said the DOH has established three cancer access sites in Central Luzon that offer free screening, consultation, and referrals.
These include Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital in Pampanga, Dr. Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center in Nueva Ecija, and Bataan General Hospital and Medical Center in Bataan.
Additionally, 11 other hospitals in the region provide comprehensive cancer services, including screening and treatment.
These are Allied Care Experts Malolos Doctors, Inc. in Bulacan; Premiere Medical Center in Nueva Ecija; Sacred Heart Medical Center, The Medical City Clark, Inc., Angeles University Foundation Medical Center, Green City Medical Center, Mother Teresa of Calcutta Medical Center, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Medical Center, and Pampanga Medical Specialists Hospital, Inc. in Pampanga; and Central Luzon Doctors Hospital and Jecsons Medical Center in Tarlac.
Garcia reiterated the DOH’s commitment to reduce the burden of cervical cancer and improve women’s health outcomes across the region through continued education, expanded access to healthcare, and a proactive approach to screening and prevention. (MJSC/MAGP, PIA Region 3-Pampanga GIP)