During the press conference of the Department of Health Bicol Center for Health Development on May 7, 2025, Ms. Julie Ann L. Granadino, Regional Program Coordinator, National Cancer Control Program, said that one of the most common cancers among women is cervical cancer.
Ms. Granadino said that the most common cause of cervical cancer is the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). However, she said that cervical cancer is one of the most treatable types of cancer, if detected early.
She emphasized the importance of regular screening every 3-5 years for women ages 30-65, to earlier detect the presence of cervical cancer.
According to Ms. Granadino, under the Cancer Assistance Fund, each patient will receive 150,000 pesos to cover the treatment and diagnosis procedures.
Ms. Granadino also encouraged HPV vaccination for females aged 9-14.
On the other hand, Dr. Rona F. Rañola, Medical Specialist III, BRHMC Bicol Cancer Center, underscored the urgent need for early detection of cervical cancer. Based on the data from the Global Cancer Observatory, there were a total of 188,976 new cases and 113,369 deaths in the Philippines in 2022.
Dr. Rañola said that the BRHMC Bicol Cancer Center offers comprehensive cancer care services including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and management, with a focus on a multidisciplinary approach.
She encouraged women to visit the BRHMC Bicol Cancer Center to avail of the free cervical cancer screening services.
The DOH Bicol CHD urges women ages 30-65 years old to avail of the free cervical cancer screening at the BRHMC Bicol Cancer Center, or the nearest health center.
Source: DOH Bicol CHD