Quezon City: The Quezon City government has strengthened its efforts against cervical cancer by promoting preventive measures and accessible screenings for women. On Wednesday, the city launched its Cervical Cancer Elimination Campaign, underscoring awareness, early detection, and improved treatment options.

According to Philippines News Agency, Karen See, the Cancer Control Coordinator of the QC Health Department (QCHD), announced during a media briefing that screenings are currently taking place across all 66 health centers, nine lying-in clinics, and nine sundown and social hygiene clinics in the city. These clinics provide confidential and free sexual health care services, including testing and treatment for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

In 2021, Quezon City partnered with Jhpiego, a nonprofit organization affiliated with Johns Hopkins University, to train QCHD staff on using self-testing kits for women aged 30 to 49. Karen See explained that women are instructed on how to collect their specimens, return them for analysis, and receive results within days. Women who test positive undergo further assessment and treatment, which may include thermal ablation or referral to gynecologic oncologists.

Quezon City was the pioneer in the country to introduce the Integrated Cancer Control Program, which is aligned with the 2019 National Integrated Cancer Control Act. The QCHD has also collaborated with South Star Drug to distribute self-testing kits at select branches, beginning with the Matalino branch.

In 2024, approximately 16,000 women underwent screening, with 237 women testing positive for potential precancerous conditions. Karen See emphasized that a positive result does not necessarily indicate cancer but rather an infection that requires treatment. She encouraged women not to fear screening, highlighting that early detection can save lives.