More than 300 women received free cervical cancer screenings and clinical breast examinations in Urdaneta City, Pangasinan Tuesday, part of an intensified women’s health campaign by the Department of Health Region 1.
The initiative, held May 26, was organized by the DOH-Ilocos Region Cancer Control Program in partnership with the Conrado F. Estrella Regional Medical and Trauma Center and the local government of Urdaneta City targeting non-pregnant, non-menstruating women between the ages of 25 and 65 who had abstained from sexual contact for at least 24 hours prior to testing.
Regional director Paula Paz Sydiongco underscored the importance of empowering women to prioritize preventive healthcare, noting that breast cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Filipino women.
“Every woman deserves the chance to live a healthy and productive life,” Sydiongco said. “Cervical and breast cancers are highly preventable and treatable when detected early. Through these free screening services, we are bringing hope, protection, and life-saving healthcare directly to our communities. We encourage women to take advantage of these opportunities because early detection saves lives.”
Sydiongco added that the DOH remains committed to strengthening cancer prevention initiatives under the Universal Health Care law by ensuring accessible and equitable services at the grassroots level.
“We want every Filipina to understand that taking time for screening is an act of self-care and courage. Huwag matakot magpasuri. Ang maagap na pagkilos ay makapagliligtas ng buhay,” Sydiongco said, encouraging women not to fear testing because early action saves lives.
During the single-day event, healthcare workers provided clinical breast examinations, cervical cancer screenings, health counseling, and educational sessions highlighting the importance of regular checkups.
The regional health office continues to urge local government units, healthcare workers, and community members to support sustained public awareness campaigns, human papillomavirus vaccination drives, and regular cancer screenings to lower preventable cancer deaths across the region. NLMonitor
