BAGUIO CITY ENHANCES CANCER CONTROL PROGRAM AMID RISING RATES

February 15, 2025 Metro BLISTT

BAGUIO CITY

Responding to rising cancer rates, local health officials stressed that proper health education, early detection and treatment leads to increase survival rate. Dr. Ana Marie Banta of the City Health Services Office disclosed that from 2022 to 2024, cancer became the second leading cause of death in the city, rising from third place in 2021. Cancer-related deaths increased dramatically: 409 in 2022, 466 in 2023, and 566 in 2024.

This trend underscores the urgent need for effective control measure, said Banta who led other health officials and advocates in the recent Baguio City Cancer Control Program forum, marking National Cancer Awareness Month. The health official said key early warning signs, include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, body pain, and unusual lumps. She urged residents to seek medical advice and screenings.

In 2024, breast cancer became widespread followed by lung and blood cancers. These shifts require targeted public health responses. The community urged to embrace a healthier lifestyle, following the “TED” principles of proper nutrition, regular exercise, and disciplined lifestyle choices. She emphasized avoiding tobacco, drugs, and excessive
alcohol. She stressed the critical role of early screening in improving treatment outcomes.

“Early detection leads to effective treatments and significantly increases survival rates,” she said, emphasizing raising community awareness about cancer, a significant public health concern. To address the problem, the city government has introduced initiatives to support cancer patients. The Cancer Assistance Fund and the Cancer and Supportive Palliative Medicine Access Program are now available at the Baguio General Hospital Medical Center.

Baguio City has localized the National Integrated Cancer Control Act, establishing a comprehensive program
encompassing prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship. This program is a collaborative effort led by
Councilor Tabanda, who authored the ordinance that was passed in November. She also detailed the shifting landscape of cancer types. Lung cancer led in 2022 and 2023, followed by breast and colorectal cancers.

The city has initiated citywide breast and cervical cancer screenings in its 16 health centers to increase early detection. The local government has partnered with organizations, including the Department of Health, cancer survivor support groups, and local medical institutions, on initiatives such as educational campaigns and health fairs.

Daniel Mangoltong/ UB-Intern