DOH Bicol offers free screening for cervical cancer

By Sally Atento-Altea

LEGAZPI CITY, Albay --- The Department of Health Bicol-Center for Health Development (DOH Bicol CHD) is spearheading a public health initiative urging women aged 30 to 65 to take advantage of free screening services for cervical cancer.

This initiative has been done in response to a 2022 study by the Global Cancer Observatory-International Agency for Research on Cancer, indicating that cervical cancer ranks as the third most common cancer among women in the Philippines.

Julie Ann Granadino, regional program manager of the DOH Bicol Cancer Control Program, emphasized that while cervical cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer when detected early, its early stages often present no noticeable symptoms, leading to late diagnoses and more severe outcomes.

“Cervical cancer is one of the most easily treatable cancers affecting women, but it is often detected late because it doesn’t usually show symptoms,” Granadino explained.

12 Filipino women die daily

The 2022 study Granadino cited also reported that a staggering 8,549 Filipino women were diagnosed with cervical cancer that year, resulting in 4,380 deaths – an average of approximately 12 fatalities every day.

In an effort to combat these alarming figures, DOH Bicol has intensified its cervical cancer prevention initiatives, offering free HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccination for girls aged 9 to 14, and crucially, free cervical cancer screening for women aged 30 to 65.

“Screening and treatment are free. We strongly encourage women not to ignore this opportunity. Visit your nearest health center and get screened,” Granadino urged, emphasizing the accessibility and importance of the program.

Residents of the Bicol region have already begun to recognize the significant value of this initiative.

Arlene Mae Magno of Legazpi City highlighted the program’s importance, particularly for women with limited financial resources who cannot afford the often-high costs of screening procedures in private clinics, where Pap smears can range from 1,000 to 3,000 pesos.

“It is a great help, especially for those who have limited resources and access to healthcare services,” Magno said.

Anjiee Mañago of Daraga, Albay also lauded the program, emphasizing its potential to save countless lives through early detection.

“It serves as a guide for us to immediately find out if there are any signs of cervical cancer, making it easier to take early action and save the lives of many women in our society,” Mañago added.

In Albay alone, DOH Bicol has set an ambitious target to screen 12,399 women aged 30 to 65, representing 5 percent of the estimated population within that age group, demonstrating a strong commitment to proactive prevention. (With reports from Raiza Lucido/PIA Albay)