ILOILO City — The Department of Health (DOH) has intensified its campaign against cervical cancer, urging women and young girls in Western Visayas to avail themselves of free HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening services amid continued concerns over one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women.
Early detection and prevention remain the strongest weapons against cervical cancer, a disease primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
DOH Region 6 stressed that while HPV infection is common, some high-risk strains can trigger abnormal changes in cervical cells that may eventually develop into cancer if left untreated.
As part of its awareness campaign, the agency is encouraging girls aged nine to 14 years old to receive free HPV vaccines, which significantly reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer later in life.
DOH-6 is also urging women aged 30 to 65 to undergo regular cervical cancer screening through Pap smears and HPV tests, which are available free of charge in health facilities.
According to the agency, early screening can detect precancerous changes before they progress into life-threatening disease.
Aside from vaccination and screening, the DOH also underscored the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to lower cancer risks.
The agency recommended balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, routine medical check-ups, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
DOH-6 stated on Facebook that women’s health directly impacts the well-being of families and communities, stressing that investing in preventive healthcare creates healthier future generations.
It also encouraged the public to seek more information and avail themselves of screening and financial assistance programs through the nearest health centers or through its online resource portal containing information on PhilHealth Z benefits and cancer support services./PN
