ILOILO City – The Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas has sounded the alarm over the continuing threat of cervical cancer, revealing that hundreds of women in the region were found at risk in 2024 alone, as it intensified its call for early screening and vaccination during this year’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.
The disease is primarily caused by persistent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact.
According to DOH Region 6 Medical Officer IV Dr. Aimee Marie Gayomali, 520 of the 10,791 women screened across the region last year were either suspected of having cervical cancer or showed signs of pre-cancerous lesions.
“Cervical cancer is largely preventable, yet it continues to claim lives, especially among women who miss the opportunity to get screened or vaccinated,” said Dr. Gayomali, who heads the Non-Communicable Diseases Cluster of DOH-6.
Dr. Gayomali emphasized the importance of prevention through immunization.
The DOH currently offers free HPV vaccines to girls aged 9 to 14 through school-based programs and public health centers.
“We target this age group because global studies show that many adolescents may become sexually active by age 15. Our goal is to build immunity before that risk begins,” explained Dr. Gayomali.
Aside from vaccination, the DOH also recommends regular screening for women aged 30 to 65 using methods such as visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), Pap smear, and HPV DNA testing.
VIA is available at most public health centers, while Pap smears are covered under the PhilHealth Konsulta package. HPV DNA testing remains limited due to its cost, which can range from ₱3,000 to ₱6,000 in private clinics.
“Early detection saves lives. Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and curable cancers if diagnosed early,” Dr. Gayomali stressed.
She also urged women to be vigilant for symptoms such as unusual bleeding, persistent pelvic or back pain, foul-smelling discharge, swelling of the legs, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss — signs that warrant immediate medical attention.
As part of its continuing efforts, the DOH is working to expand access to preventive services and is calling on parents, schools, and communities to support its campaign.
“Prevention is possible — and it starts with awareness, vaccination, and regular screening,” Dr. Gayomali said.
DOH observes the month May as Cervical Cancer Prevention Awareness Month./PN
