By Glen Ramos
URDANETA CITY, Pangasinan — More than 300 women benefited from free cervical cancer screening and clinical breast examination services conducted by the Department of Health (DOH) in Urdaneta City as part of its intensified campaign to prevent and detect cancer early among Filipino women.
The initiative, held on May 26, was spearheaded by the DOH Ilocos Region through its Cancer Control Program in partnership with the Conrado F. Estrella Regional Medical and Trauma Center (CFERMTC) and the local government of Urdaneta City.
Women aged 25 to 65 who met the screening requirements participated in the activity, which aimed to promote early detection and timely treatment of cervical and breast cancer—two of the leading health threats facing women in the country.
DOH Ilocos Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco stressed the importance of preventive healthcare and encouraged women to take advantage of available screening services.
“Every woman deserves the opportunity to live a healthy and productive life. Cervical and breast cancers can be prevented and treated when detected early. Through these free services, we are bringing life-saving healthcare closer to communities,” Sydiongco said.
She emphasized that the agency remains committed to strengthening cancer prevention programs under the Universal Health Care initiative by ensuring that essential health services remain accessible, especially at the grassroots level.
Sydiongco also urged women not to fear undergoing medical examinations, noting that early screening significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival.
Aside from cervical cancer screening and breast examinations, healthcare workers also provided counseling and health education sessions to raise awareness about the importance of regular checkups, early consultation, and healthy lifestyle practices.
The activity forms part of the DOH’s continuing efforts to reduce cancer-related illnesses and deaths through preventive healthcare, public awareness campaigns, and expanded access to screening services.
The agency likewise called on local government units, healthcare professionals, and communities to support sustained cancer awareness programs, Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination initiatives, and regular screening activities to help curb preventable cancer deaths across the region.
ia/xf
