Gov’t intensifies community-based cancer control efforts; early screening pushed
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
The initiative supports the implementation of the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act and the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA), which mandate accessible, affordable, and quality cancer care services, from prevention and early detection to treatment and palliative care, across all levels of the healthcare system.
In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen primary healthcare and ensure equitable access to medical services, health authorities continue to expand community-based interventions, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.
During the Kapihan sa PIA held at SM City Butuan on April 30, discussions highlighted ongoing initiatives focused on reaching communities through strengthened primary care systems and local government-led health programs.
Romelyn Esther Torralba-Santos, nurse V of the Department of Health–Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga, underscored the critical role of accessible primary care services, particularly cervical and breast cancer screening, in reducing cancer-related mortality.
“Cancer control begins with early screening. We encourage everyone to avail of the free and accessible services in your local health facilities,” Santos said.
She emphasized that the nationwide cervical cancer screening program, launched in 2024, is now being implemented across local government units (LGUs), enabling wider reach and ensuring that even far-flung communities can access life-saving screening services through rural health units (RHUs).
Santos noted that bringing services closer to the people is key, especially as the region continues to face a shortage of cancer specialists, making preventive care and early detection at the community level even more crucial.
She reported that Caraga has recorded the highest cancer screening coverage rates in the country from 2024 to 2025, attributing this to the strong collaboration among LGUs, partner agencies, and the media in promoting awareness and encouraging community participation.
Preventive services, including cancer screening, are now readily available in RHUs, significantly improving access for residents in barangays and geographically isolated areas. Health authorities continue to urge the public to sustain and further increase screening uptake, emphasizing that early detection is key to saving lives.
Santos also stressed the importance of health education and lifestyle modification as part of primary prevention, alongside regular screening as a secondary preventive measure.
“We should not wait until cancer symptoms become severe before seeking treatment. Early consultation and screening can make a significant difference in outcomes,” she added.
She also encouraged individuals to seek medical consultation for any suspected symptoms related to various types of cancer, highlighting that timely intervention remains crucial.
Santos expressed gratitude to stakeholders and partners for their continued support in advancing cancer control initiatives, particularly in expanding outreach efforts and ensuring services reach communities.
Meanwhile, the Cancer Assistance Fund is now available in the Caraga region through the D.O. Plaza Memorial Hospital, providing financial support to eligible patients undergoing cancer treatment and check-ups in line with the national government’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare services. (NCLM, PIA Agusan del Norte)