Importance of Regular Screenings and Cancer Prevention in the Philippines

February is National Cancer Prevention Month in the Philippines, a time to shine a light on the impact of cancer and underscore the significance of early detection and prevention. Cancer is a leading cause of death in the Philippines, claiming over 110,000 lives in 2022 and ranking as the third leading cause of death in the country¹. The incidence of cancer continues to rise, with almost 190,000 new diagnoses reported in 2022, primarily driven by breast, lung, and colorectal cancers¹. The age-standardized incidence rates (ASR) for all cancer sites range from 174.0 per 100,000 men and 160.6 per 100,000 women in Rizal to 215.1 per 100,000 men and 195.6 per 100,000 women in Manila². With these alarming figures, it is more crucial than ever to take proactive steps towards reducing the burden of this disease. This article will explore the importance of regular cancer screenings, delve into the guidelines for cervical and prostate cancer screenings, and discuss effective cancer prevention strategies in the Philippines.

The Importance of Regular Cancer Screenings

Cancer screening is a vital tool for detecting cancer early, even before any noticeable symptoms arise. It involves various tests and examinations aimed at identifying precancerous changes or cancer in individuals who do not have any signs or symptoms of the disease⁴. Early detection through screening can significantly improve treatment outcomes and increase the chances of survival. When abnormal tissue or cancer is detected at an early stage, it is often easier to treat and may even be cured⁴. Conversely, waiting for symptoms to appear often means the cancer has progressed, making treatment more challenging and potentially less effective⁴.

To illustrate the importance of early detection, let’s examine the survival estimates for different types of cancer in the Philippines. A study comparing survival rates among Philippine residents, Filipino-Americans, and Caucasians in the US found significant differences⁵. Filipino-Americans had much higher survival rates than Philippine residents, particularly for cancers with good prognoses if detected and treated early, such as colorectal, breast, and cervical cancers⁵. This disparity highlights the crucial role of early detection and timely treatment in improving cancer survival rates in the Philippines.

It’s important to note that not all screening tests are created equal. An effective screening test should meet several criteria: ⁶

It should be able to detect cancer before symptoms appear.
It should screen for a cancer that is easier to treat and cure when found early.
It should have a low rate of false-positive and false-negative results.
It should be proven to decrease the chance of dying from cancer.

There are various types of cancer screening tests, each with its own benefits and limitations⁴. Some tests may be more suitable for certain individuals based on their risk factors, age, and medical history. Therefore, it is crucial to discuss with a healthcare professional which screening tests are appropriate and when to have them⁴.

Regular cancer screening offers several potential benefits:

Peace of mind: A normal screening result can provide reassurance and alleviate anxiety about cancer⁷.
Cancer prevention: Screening can detect precancerous changes, allowing for early intervention and potentially preventing cancer from developing⁷.
Early detection: Screening helps find cancer at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be successful⁷.
Improved survival: Early detection through screening increases the chances of survival⁷.
Less aggressive treatment: Early-stage cancers often require less aggressive treatment options, such as surgery or radiation therapy, compared to advanced cancers that may need chemotherapy or other intensive treatments⁴.
Shorter recovery time: Less aggressive treatment often translates to a shorter recovery time and a faster return to normal activities⁴.

While cancer screening offers significant advantages, it’s essential to be aware of the potential limitations:

False-positive results: A false-positive result occurs when a screening test suggests cancer is present when it is not. This can lead to anxiety, stress, and unnecessary further testing, which may be invasive and have its own risks⁴.
False-negative results: A false-negative result occurs when a screening test fails to detect cancer that is actually present. This can provide a false sense of security and may lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment⁴.
Overdiagnosis and overtreatment: Overdiagnosis happens when a screening test detects a cancer that would not have caused any symptoms or health problems during a person’s lifetime. This can lead to unnecessary treatment, which may have side effects and potential harms⁴.
Potential harm from screening procedures: Some screening procedures, such as colonoscopy or biopsy, carry a small risk of complications, such as bleeding or infection⁴.

Despite these limitations, the benefits of regular screening for certain cancers, such as breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers, generally outweigh the risks⁷. It’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits and limitations of each screening test and make an informed decision in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Cancer Screening Guidelines in the Philippines

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer is a significant health concern in the Philippines, with a mortality-to-incidence ratio of 0.51, indicating poor survival rates⁸. A significant proportion of Filipino cervical cancer patients, about 75%, are diagnosed at advanced stages, further contributing to the low survival rates⁸. Early detection through regular screening is crucial for improving outcomes and reducing mortality from cervical cancer.

The Philippine Department of Health provides guidelines for cervical cancer screening to ensure early detection and timely intervention: ⁹

Women aged 30 to 65 should undergo cervical cancer screening every 3 years with cervical cytology (Pap smear) alone or every 5 years with high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing.
Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) remains a viable alternative to the Pap smear, especially in resource-constrained areas where access to Pap smear facilities and cytopathologists is limited⁸.

These guidelines are in line with the World Health Organization’s recommendations, which emphasize the use of HPV DNA detection tests as the primary screening method for cervical cancer¹⁰. HPV testing is highly effective in detecting high-risk HPV infections that can lead to cervical cancer.

Several factors can increase the risk of cervical cancer, including: ¹¹

Cervical dysplasia, a condition characterized by the presence of abnormal, precancerous cells in the cervix.
Persistent HPV infections, particularly those that do not clear on their own after age 30.
Weakened immune system, which may be due to conditions like HIV or the use of immunosuppressant medications.
Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) before birth.

Women with these risk factors should discuss with their healthcare provider about the appropriate screening frequency and methods.

Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer is a prevalent cancer among men in the Philippines, ranking among the top five most common cancer sites². While there is no national prostate cancer screening program in the Philippines, guidelines are available to help men make informed decisions about screening.

The Philippine Cancer Society recommends the following for prostate cancer screening: ¹²

Men aged 50 to 75 years with a life expectancy of at least 10 years should be offered a digital rectal examination (DRE) annually.
If the DRE reveals any abnormalities or if the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level is elevated, further evaluation with a PSA measurement and ultrasound with biopsy may be recommended.
Screening is generally not recommended for men over 75 years of age.

Prostate cancer screening is a preference-sensitive decision, meaning the best approach varies depending on individual circumstances and values¹³. Therefore, healthcare providers should engage in shared decision-making (SDM) with men considering prostate cancer screening¹³. SDM involves a collaborative process where the healthcare provider and the patient discuss the benefits, risks, and uncertainties of screening, considering the patient’s preferences and values to arrive at an informed decision together.

In the Philippines, a panel of experts identified PSA testing as the most effective test for early prostate cancer diagnosis and risk stratification¹⁴. For men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC), abiraterone acetate or docetaxel are often preferred as first-line therapies¹⁴.

Cancer Prevention Strategies

While regular screening is crucial for early detection, adopting a healthy lifestyle and preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancer¹⁵. These strategies can help protect against various types of cancer and contribute to overall well-being.

1. Don’t Smoke

Smoking is a major risk factor for cancer, responsible for about 30% of all cancer deaths in the United States and a staggering 90% of lung cancers¹⁶. It is a leading cause of cancer deaths among Filipino men¹⁷. The harmful chemicals in tobacco damage cells and increase the risk of various cancers, including lung, throat, mouth, esophagus, bladder, kidney, pancreatic, stomach, colon, rectum, cervix, and certain leukemias¹⁸. Avoiding all forms of tobacco, including cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and electronic cigarettes, is one of the most impactful steps you can take to prevent cancer¹⁶.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for cancer prevention. Obesity is linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including breast, prostate, lung, colon, and kidney cancers¹⁹. Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances and chronic inflammation, which can contribute to cancer development¹⁸. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce your cancer risk.

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet plays a vital role in cancer prevention. Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting red and processed meats, unhealthy fats, and added sugars²⁰. Studies have shown that cultures with predominantly plant-based diets have lower cancer rates²⁰. Plant-based foods are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber, which can protect against cancer. Conversely, diets high in red and processed meats, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars have been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers²⁰.

4. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of several cancers, including liver, breast, and colorectal cancers¹⁹. The more alcohol you consume, the higher your risk. It is best to avoid alcohol altogether or limit your intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women¹⁹.

5. Protect Yourself from the Sun

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer¹⁹. Protect your skin by:

Limiting time in the sun: Especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest.
Seeking shade: When outdoors, stay in the shade as much as possible.
Covering up: Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats.
Wearing sunglasses: Protect your eyes from UV radiation with sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays.
Using sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating.
Avoiding tanning beds and sunlamps: These emit harmful UV radiation that can damage your skin.

6. Get Vaccinated

Vaccinations can protect against certain viral infections that can lead to cancer. Two important vaccines for cancer prevention are:

Hepatitis B vaccine: Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can cause chronic liver disease and increase the risk of liver cancer. The hepatitis B vaccine is safe and effective in preventing hepatitis B infection²¹.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine: HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical cancer and other cancers, including cancers of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and oropharynx (back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils). The HPV vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls and can be given as early as age 9¹⁹.

7. Get Regular Check-ups and Cancer Screening Tests

Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are essential for maintaining good health and detecting potential health problems early. During these check-ups, your healthcare provider can assess your overall health, discuss any concerns you may have, and recommend appropriate cancer screening tests based on your individual risk factors and medical history²². Adhering to recommended cancer screening guidelines is crucial for early detection and prevention.

Cancer Trends in the Philippines

Analyzing cancer trends provides valuable insights into the changing patterns of cancer incidence and mortality over time. This information can help inform public health strategies, prioritize research efforts, and guide cancer control programs.

In the Philippines, studies have shown both increasing and decreasing trends for different types of cancer²³. For instance, breast cancer incidence has been steadily increasing among females, while cervical cancer incidence has shown a slight decrease²⁴. Lung cancer incidence in males reached a peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s and has slightly declined since then²⁴. Colorectal and prostate cancer incidence has been on the rise, while stomach cancer incidence has fallen steeply²⁴.

These trends reflect the complex interplay of various factors, including lifestyle changes, environmental exposures, and access to healthcare. Understanding these trends is crucial for developing effective cancer control strategies and improving cancer outcomes in the Philippines.

Cancer Support Organizations and Resources in the Philippines

Navigating a cancer diagnosis and treatment can be challenging. Fortunately, several organizations in the Philippines offer valuable support and resources to cancer patients and their families. These organizations provide a range of services, including financial assistance, emotional support, and information on cancer prevention and treatment.

Organization	Description	Website/Contact
Philippine Cancer Society (PCS)	A non-profit organization engaged in cancer prevention and control programs, including cancer registry, education, patient services, and palliative care²⁵.	http://www.philcancer.org.ph/
ICanServe Foundation	An advocacy group of breast cancer survivors and volunteers that promotes early detection, access to accurate diagnosis and treatment, and survivorship care²⁶.	https://www.icanservefoundation.org/
Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO)	Provides a list of patient support programs and groups, including government and non-government organizations offering financial assistance²⁷.	https://psmo.org.ph/
Philippine Cancer Center	The country’s center of excellence in cancer care, research and development, and capacity development²⁸.	https://philcancercenter.gov.ph/
Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO)	Offers financial assistance for cancer treatment through its Medical Assistance Program²⁹.	https://www.pcso.gov.ph/
GMA Kapuso Foundation	Provides medical assistance to patients aged 0-18 years old from any government hospital²⁹.	https://www.gmanetwork.com/kapusofoundation/

These organizations play a crucial role in supporting cancer patients and their families throughout their cancer journey. They offer a safe space for individuals to connect with others facing similar challenges, share experiences, and find emotional support²⁷. They also provide valuable information and resources to help patients navigate the complexities of cancer care.

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

Life-Saver Events Management Services (Life+Saver) is at the forefront of event management in the Philippines, dedicated to transforming healthcare and empowering Filipinos through impactful events³. Life+Saver firmly believes that impactful events can educate, inspire, and create lasting change in healthcare. Their mission is to empower lives and build healthier communities through innovative events that raise awareness, promote prevention, and cultivate a culture of well-being³.

One of Life+Saver’s impactful programs is “Bonnet The Cause,” an initiative that aims to raise awareness and funds to support those affected by cancer³. “Bonnet The Cause” is a unique campaign that merges fashion with social responsibility. By designing and selling specially crafted bonnets, the program generates funds for cancer research, treatment, and support services³. These bonnets serve as a symbol of hope and solidarity, representing the strength and resilience of those facing cancer.

Life+Saver’s dedication to healthcare transformation goes beyond “Bonnet The Cause.” They are also actively involved in promoting vaccination through their VacciMission project, which aims to provide access to affordable vaccines for Filipinos³. By combining event management with targeted advocacy and community empowerment initiatives, Life+Saver is making significant contributions to improving healthcare in the Philippines.

Conclusion

National Cancer Prevention Month in the Philippines serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and prevention in the fight against cancer. By prioritizing our health, we can take proactive steps to reduce our cancer risk and improve our chances of early detection and successful treatment.

Here are some key takeaways and calls to action:

Schedule regular check-ups: Make it a priority to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to discuss your health concerns and undergo recommended cancer screening tests.
Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Embrace healthy habits, such as avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol consumption, and protecting your skin from the sun.
Get vaccinated: Talk to your healthcare provider about getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B and HPV to protect against liver and cervical cancers.
Support cancer prevention initiatives: Consider supporting organizations like Life+Saver and their “Bonnet The Cause” program to contribute to cancer awareness, research, and support services.
Seek support and resources: If you or someone you know is affected by cancer, reach out to cancer support organizations for information, guidance, and emotional support.

Together, we can make a difference in the fight against cancer and contribute to a healthier Philippines.

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