BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
Aside from breast cancer, cervical cancer is also among the deadliest cancers affecting women in the country.
It is commonly caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a virus transmitted through sexual contact.
According to Globocan data from 2020, an estimated 7,897 new cases of cervical cancer are recorded annually in the Philippines, with 4,052 resulting in death.
The problem lies in the fact that many women with HPV infection are unaware they are infected, as symptoms often do not appear in the early stages.
To address this, January is observed as Cervical Health Awareness Month, a significant step in raising awareness and promoting cervical health.
Cervical Health Awareness Month began in the United States in 2010, spearheaded by the National Cervical Cancer Coalition.
Its goal is to enhance public awareness about preventing and detecting cervical cancer early.
In the Philippines, this campaign has been adopted by the Department of Health to further educate Filipinas on cervical cancer prevention and treatment.
Organizations like the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society and the Philippine Cancer Society work alongside the government to fulfill the campaign’s objectives.
Through Cervical Health Awareness Month, experts and agencies encourage women to undergo testing even without symptoms.
Steps to prevent cervical cancer include HPV vaccination, regular Pap smears or HPV testing, practicing safe sex, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
By simply visiting health centers for regular check-ups, women can protect themselves from the dangers of cervical cancer.
