Health expert: Early detection a key to survive cancer

Local

EARLY detection can significantly increase chances of surviving cancer.

Dr. Joan Antonette R. Albito, head of the Department of Health Central Visayas’ Non-Communicable Diseases Section, emphasized this as she made the call for timely screening in line with National Cancer Prevention Month.

“Early detection helps improve outcomes. Even with advanced treatment options, if cancer is detected very late, the chances of survival are low,” Albito said at the MyTV Cebu’s Openline News Media Forum on Tuesday, Feb. 10.

Albito encouraged the public to make cancer screening a regular habit, particularly those with a family history of cancer.

According to Albito, lung cancer is the leading type of cancer in Central Visayas, followed by liver, breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers.

She noted that this ranking mirrors the nationwide situation.

Based on 2024 data, cancer in all forms ranked as the eighth leading cause of mortality in the region, while nationwide, cancer is among the top three causes of death.

Albito said regional data from last year was not yet available at the time of the forum.

Meanwhile, she also warned about the health risks associated with tobacco and vaping products.

She explained that, in addition to nicotine, these products contain formaldehyde, which is highly toxic.

Albito noted that exposure can lead to cancer as well as respiratory, cardiovascular, and developmental problems affecting the brain.

She emphasized the importance of early screening and preventive measures in combating cancer.

Local government units are being equipped to provide basic cancer screening services, including Pap smears, visual inspection using acetic acid, and breast examinations.

Albito stressed that even with advanced treatment options, late detection significantly lowers the chances of survival.

Albito highlighted that while cancer is not entirely preventable, lifestyle choices can reduce risk.

She encouraged proper nutrition, regular health check-ups, avoidance of smoking and heavy alcohol consumption, and awareness of family medical history.

Vaccination was also presented as a key preventive strategy, particularly for cervical cancer.

The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is provided for free to girls aged 9 to 14 through school-based programs, with community-based options available at rural health centers and local government units for out-of-school youth.

Albito explained that vaccinating children at a young age strengthens the immune system and develops antibodies to protect against the HPV that causes cervical cancer.

She acknowledged that vaccine hesitancy among parents remains a challenge and called for media support to help disseminate accurate information and encourage public participation in the vaccination program.

Albito also addressed the debate over vaping versus smoking, noting that both expose users to harmful substances such as nicotine and aldehydes.

She advised avoiding all such products to maintain long-term health.

On government initiatives, Albito highlighted the National Integrated Cancer Control Act as a significant step toward expanding cancer services.

She said the law provides a framework to improve health systems and make cancer prevention, detection, and treatment more accessible, especially in underserved areas.(MyTVCebu)