Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is reminding members that they may receive up to PHP400,000 in financial coverage for the treatment of advanced colorectal cancer under its Z Benefits Package. This announcement is part of the country's observance of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month this March and the government's continuing efforts to promote preventive care and improve access to treatment for life-threatening diseases.

According to Philippines News Agency, colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer affecting Filipino men and women nationwide. In 2022, the number of new cases reached 20,736, accounting for 11 percent of the total number of cancer cases in the country for the year.

Under the program, PhilHealth provides up to PHP150,000 coverage for early-stage colon and rectal cancer, while advanced-stage colon cancer patients may receive up to PHP300,000. Patients diagnosed with advanced-stage rectal cancer may receive the highest package of up to PHP400,000 to help cover the cost of treatment.

PhilHealth stated that the Z Benefits Package aims to reduce the financial burden of costly medical care for serious illnesses such as colorectal cancer, which often requires surgery, diagnostic procedures, and long-term treatment. It urged Filipinos to undergo early screening, noting that colorectal cancer may develop slowly and often shows no early warning signs.

Individuals 45 years old and above, those with a family history of colorectal cancer, those experiencing changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss are advised to consult health professionals and consider screening. To support early detection, PhilHealth said colonoscopy screening may also be covered through referrals under the PhilHealth YAKAP program, with benefits amounting to PHP23,640. Early detection increases the chances of successful treatment, it added.