THE Philippine College of Surgeons Cancer Commission (PCS CanCom) Foundation is encouraging the public to undergo cancer screening tests, as early diagnosis is crucial for higher survival rates among cancer patients.
According to data from the PCS Cancer Foundation, 85 percent of cancer cases result from aging or unhealthy lifestyles, while the remaining 15 percent are genetic or hereditary.
Dr. Manuel Francisco Roxas, a colorectal cancer specialist and chairperson of the PCS CanCom, emphasized the importance of early diagnosis in cancer survival.
He stated during a recent forum that early detection leads to higher chances of cure. Roxas, also the medical director of Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, expressed concern over cancer being the third leading cause of death among Filipinos and its projected increase due to the aging population.
Department of Health secretary Ted Herbosa mentioned plans for a government program promoting cancer screening during discussions with the PCS Cancer Foundation.
Roxas highlighted the aim to detect cancer early, reducing late-stage cases and associated costs.
The PCS CanCom aims to establish the Philippine Cancer Center (PCC), focusing on less common and complex cancers, complementing existing DOH hospitals’ capabilities. The PCC’s construction, mandated by the Philippine National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA) of February 2019, is set to begin in Quezon City’s East Avenue.
Currently, the country has 35 designated cancer control centers. To commemorate World Cancer Awareness Day, the PCS CanCom, along with the DOH, Cancer Coalition Philippines (CCPh), and the Philippine Cancer Society, will host the Philippine Cancer Summit from February 29 to March 1, 2024, offering free cancer screening exams at Novotel in Quezon City, with mobile buses deployed for public screening.
Additionally, a fun run and cancer summit are scheduled for February 11, 2024, at the CCP Complex, providing participants with free screenings for breast, cervix, prostate, and thyroid cancers, along with educational materials on cancer screening, diagnosis, and management.
