THE Department of Health (DOH) – Ilocos Region, in support for the celebration of Women’s Month, successfully conducted breast and cervical cancer screening for 30 to 65 years old women in San Fernando City, La Union on March 7, 2025 for the early detection and treatment of the disease.
Women who participated in the screening activity also undergo PhilPEN assessment for the early detection, prevention, and management of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes.
Regional Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco stated that breast and cervical cancer are the top two cancer in terms of incidence in the country. “And we aim to reduce the rate of cancer diseases in the region through the mobile mass screening for breast and cancer screening.
“We are delivering these services to our communities and informing our women for them to know that these examinations are essential part of their routinary self-care. Kasama po ito sa mga serbisyong pangkalusugan na kinakailangan maibigay sa ating mga kababaihan upang masiguro na sila ay malusog at cancer-free,” she said.
The mobile breast and cervical cancer screening started last January and has already visited the towns of Agoo, Aringay, Bacnotan and Luna in the province of La Union.
It was also conducted in Vigan City in Ilocos Sur and Batac City in Ilocos Norte last February 2025.
Regional Cancer Control Program Manager Francisco De Vera, Jr. said that more towns will be visited and more women will be given free cancer screening.
“This program will ensure direct health care services lalo sa mga kababayan nating limited ang access sa mga serbisyong pangkalusugan. It is important to empower our women for them to know how to take good care of themselves and safeguard their health and well-being.” he added.
The cancer screening in La Union was conducted in partnership with Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the Ilocos Treatment and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC) and was held at Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (TRC) – La Union.
