Common Types of Cancer in the Philippines

February is National Cancer Awareness Month in the Philippines, a time to reflect on the impact of this disease and to educate ourselves about its prevalence, risks, and treatments. Cancer is a significant health concern in the Philippines, ranking as the third leading cause of death. In 2022 alone, there were over 110,000 cancer deaths and almost 190,000 new diagnoses¹. Within Southeast Asia, the Philippines records one of the highest premature cancer-related deaths¹. In this article, we’ll explore the most common cancers in the Philippines.

Cancer Statistics in the Philippines

The Philippines faces unique challenges in cancer control compared to global data. Despite similarities in the types of cancers, the country experiences issues such as late diagnoses and lower survival rates². This emphasizes the need for improved local strategies for early detection and access to timely treatment.

According to the Global Cancer Observatory, the overall cancer incidence rate in the Philippines is 185.4 per 100,000 persons per year, and the mortality rate is 112.9 per 100,000 persons per year³. To put this into perspective, the Philippines has a higher incidence of breast cancer compared to the global average, highlighting the need for increased awareness and screening programs in the country. The most common cancer sites by incidence are breast cancer for women (60.3 per 100,000) and lung cancer for men (37.7 per 100,000)³.

Cancer in Men

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among Filipino men, accounting for 18.4% of all cancer cases in men². It is also the most important malignancy in males in the Philippines, emphasizing the urgent need for targeted interventions for this population⁵. The most frequent type is squamous cell carcinoma. The primary risk factor is smoking, responsible for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases². Other risk factors include exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution, occupational exposure to carcinogens like asbestos, and a family history of lung cancer⁶.

Symptoms of lung cancer may include:

A persistent cough
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Coughing up blood
Unexplained weight loss

Early detection through low-dose CT scans can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy².

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is the second most common cancer in Filipino men. The age-standardized incidence rate is highest in Manila. In Cebu, it is the leading malignancy site for males. Risk factors include:

Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C virus
Cirrhosis of the liver
Heavy alcohol consumption
Exposure to aflatoxins (toxins produced by certain fungi)

Symptoms of liver cancer can be vague and may include:

Abdominal pain or swelling
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)

Treatment options for liver cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in Filipino men². Risk factors include:

Age (most cases occur in people over 50)
Family history of colorectal cancer
A diet high in red and processed meats
Low-fiber diet
Obesity
Smoking ⁷

Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include:

Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool)
Blood in the stool
Abdominal pain
Unexplained weight loss

Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies and stool tests, are crucial for early detection. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy².

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a significant health concern in the Philippines, with an increasing incidence rate⁸. In 2020, it was the third most common cancer in Filipino men⁸. To raise awareness, the Philippine Department of Health (DOH) has designated the month of June every year as “Prostate Cancer Disease Awareness Month.” ⁹ Risk factors include:

Age (risk increases with age)
Family history of prostate cancer
African ancestry
Obesity

Symptoms of prostate cancer often appear only in the advanced stages and may include:

Difficulty urinating
Frequent urination
Pain or burning during urination
Blood in the urine or semen

Early detection through prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal exams is essential. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy¹⁰.

Cancer in Women

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Filipino women, representing 31.4% of all cancer cases in women². The Philippines has one of the highest breast cancer prevalence rates in Asia¹¹. Risk factors include:

Age (risk increases with age)
Family history of breast cancer
Genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2)
Early menarche (start of menstruation)
Late menopause
Obesity
Lack of physical activity
Alcohol consumption
Exposure to certain chemicals ¹¹
Working graveyard shifts ¹¹

Symptoms of breast cancer may include:

A lump in the breast or underarm
Changes in breast size or shape
Skin dimpling or puckering
Nipple discharge
Redness or scaling of the nipple or breast skin

Early detection through regular self-exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms is crucial. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and hormone therapy².

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Filipino women¹². It is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the Philippines¹². Despite being preventable, cervical cancer remains a significant burden in the Philippines due to low screening uptake and lack of awareness¹². Infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV), such as types 16 and 18, is strongly associated with cervical cancer⁵. Risk factors include:

Early age at first sexual intercourse
Multiple sexual partners
Smoking
Weakened immune system

Symptoms of cervical cancer often do not appear until the disease is advanced and may include:

Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Pelvic pain
Pain during intercourse

Regular screening through Pap smears is vital for early detection. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy¹².

Lung Cancer

While more common in men, lung cancer is also a significant concern for Filipino women, accounting for 12.8% of cancer cases in women². Risk factors and symptoms are similar to those in men.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in Filipino women². Risk factors and symptoms are similar to those in men.

Risk Factors and Prevention Strategies

Many common cancers in the Philippines are associated with modifiable risk factors, offering opportunities for prevention. These include:

Tobacco use: Smoking is a major risk factor for lung, oral cavity, and other cancers. Avoiding tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke is crucial⁷.
Diet: A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fiber increases the risk of colorectal cancer. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is recommended⁷.
Physical inactivity: Lack of physical activity is linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including breast and colorectal cancer. Regular exercise is essential¹¹.
Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake increases the risk of various cancers, including liver and breast cancer. Moderation is key¹¹.
Infections: Certain infections, such as HPV, increase the risk of cervical cancer. Vaccination against HPV and practicing safe sex can reduce this risk¹².
Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants may increase cancer risk. Minimizing exposure to these factors is important¹¹.

The Philippine Cancer Control Program (PCCP), established in 1988, takes an integrated approach to cancer control, utilizing primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention strategies¹³. The six pillars of the PCCP are:

Epidemiology and Research
Public Information and Health Education
Prevention and Early Detection
Treatment
Training
Pain Relief ¹³

In addition to these lifestyle factors, early detection through regular screenings is crucial for preventing cancer deaths. The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of cancer screening for early detection and timely treatment.

Cancer Treatment Options in the Philippines

The Philippines offers a range of cancer treatment options, including:

Surgery: Surgical removal of cancerous tissue is a primary treatment for many solid tumors¹⁴.
Radiation therapy: This therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells¹⁴.
Chemotherapy: This treatment uses drugs to destroy cancer cells¹⁴.
Hormone therapy: This therapy is used to block or reduce hormones that fuel certain cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer¹⁴.
Immunotherapy: This treatment helps the body’s immune system fight cancer¹⁵.
Targeted therapy: This therapy uses drugs that target specific molecules involved in cancer growth¹⁵.

The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. Access to these treatments can be challenging due to the severe lack of cancer care providers in the Philippines. There are only 0.32 medical oncologists, 0.15 surgical oncologists, 0.09 radiation oncologists, 0.13 gynecologic oncologists, and 0.03 hospice and palliative medicine specialists for every 100,000 Filipinos¹⁶.

Cancer Research in the Philippines

The National Integrated Cancer Control Program (NICCP) has identified several research priorities to enhance cancer care in the Philippines. These include:

Cancer Treatment Outcomes: Investigating the effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness of cancer treatments for various cancer types and stages.
Health Systems Strengthening: Researching strategies to enhance governance, financing, technology, human resources, and service delivery for equitable access to cancer care.
Health Promotion, Prevention, and Early Detection: Investigating strategies for promoting healthy behaviors, preventing cancer occurrence, and enhancing early detection methods.
Data Management and Sharing: Enhancing national and hospital-based cancer registries and data systems to facilitate collaboration and research.
Epidemiological Research on Cancer Burden: Researching cancer prevalence, incidence, distribution, and determinants within the population.
Multidisciplinary and Holistic Care: Integrating medical, psychosocial, nutritional, and supportive care services to address the diverse needs of cancer patients⁹.

Support Services and Resources

Several organizations in the Philippines provide support and resources for cancer patients and their families. These include:

Philippine Cancer Society (PCS): Offers a range of services, including cancer information, patient navigation, and support groups¹⁷. They also provide medical assistance through various channels, including the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), the Senate of the Philippines, and the House of Representatives¹⁸.
Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO): Provides information on cancer treatment options and support programs¹⁹. They also list various cancer support groups throughout the Philippines, such as the I Can Serve Foundation, the CAREWELL Foundation, and the Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group¹⁹.
Cancer Coalition Philippines: An advocacy group working to improve cancer care in the Philippines¹⁹.
Hospitals and cancer centers: Many hospitals and cancer centers offer support groups, counseling, and financial assistance programs. For example, The Medical City offers a cancer support group that meets on the first Saturday of every month²⁰.

Life-Saver Events Management Services and “Bonnet The Cause”

Life-Saver Events Management Services (Life+Saver) is an organization dedicated to making a difference in the lives of Filipinos affected by cancer. Through their “Bonnet The Cause” program, Life+Saver aims to raise awareness and funds to support cancer research, treatment, and support services in the Philippines⁴.

“Bonnet The Cause” is a unique fundraising campaign that utilizes specially designed bonnets to raise awareness and funds for cancer care facilities. By creating and showcasing these fashionable headwear pieces, the program empowers and unites cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones through creative expression⁴.

This initiative not only raises funds but also provides a platform for cancer patients and survivors to share their stories, connect with others, and find strength in their shared experiences. Life+Saver’s “Bonnet The Cause” is a testament to the power of fashion and creativity in bringing people together to fight against cancer.

Call to Action

National Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder that we can all play a role in the fight against cancer. Whether through education, prevention, early detection, or support for those affected by the disease, every action counts.

Life+Saver’s “Bonnet The Cause” program offers a unique opportunity for philanthropic individuals and organizations to contribute to this cause. By supporting this initiative, you can help raise awareness, provide crucial funding, and empower those battling cancer in the Philippines.

Join Life+Saver in their mission to make a difference in the lives of Filipinos affected by cancer. Together, we can create a future where cancer is no longer a threat.

Conclusion

Cancer remains a significant health challenge in the Philippines. By understanding the most common types of cancer, their risk factors, and available treatment options, we can take proactive steps toward prevention and early detection. National Cancer Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying informed about cancer risks, engaging in preventive measures, and supporting initiatives that empower those battling this disease. Organizations like Life+Saver and their “Bonnet The Cause” program provide vital support and resources for those affected by cancer, reminding us of the importance of collective action in the fight against this disease. By working together, we can make a difference in the fight against cancer in the Philippines.

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