In a proactive measure to bolster cancer awareness and prevention, the Department of Health (DOH) has announced the introduction of cancer screening services tailored for women in workplace settings.
The initiative, spearheaded by the DOH in collaboration with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), aims to enhance women's health and overall well-being while advancing cancer prevention and control efforts.
Among the services offered is cervical cancer screening, which encompasses advanced molecular techniques such as the human papillomavirus-DNA (HPV-DNA) test for women aged 30 to 49 years.
Cytologic tests such as pap smear or visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) will also be provided for women aged 50 and above.
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, the DOH emphasized that cervical cancer ranks third among the most prevalent cancers in women, trailing behind breast and colorectal cancers.
Despite its high treatability when detected early, cervical cancer often manifests asymptomatically in its initial stages and is primarily linked to HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection.
The DOH underscored that preventive measures, including HPV vaccination and early detection through screening, play a pivotal role in mitigating the impact of cervical cancer.
Region-wide screening services, focusing on the detection and prevention of cervical and breast cancers, will be led by the DOH's center for health development.
These services will be accessible across various healthcare facilities, including the Quezon City health department.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa emphasized the broader societal implications of the initiative, stating, "When we take care of women, we take care of the nation. With this initiative, we not only address the pressing need for organized cancer screening services but also recognize the pivotal role of women in our society."
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