Philippine Cancer Society Expands ACT NOW Program
The Philippine Cancer Society (PCS) recently launched the expanded ACT NOW program, focusing on early diagnosis of breast and cervical cancer in marginalized communities. This initiative aims to improve access to vital cancer screening services for underserved populations.
ACT NOW, which stands for Access to Cancer Treatment Now, is a mobile screening campaign designed to connect patients with timely medical care. Officials reported that the program will soon incorporate liver and lung cancer detection through AI-assisted screening technology, enabling faster diagnosis and treatment.
Early Detection Saves Lives
“Early detection saves lives—this is not just a slogan but a medical reality,” stated PCS President Dr. Corazon Ngelangel. She emphasized that the ACT NOW campaign bridges the gap between advanced screening technology and communities in need.
Community members noted that cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the Philippines. Among women, breast and cervical cancers are the primary culprits, causing thousands of fatalities annually.
Breast and Cervical Cancer Impact in the Philippines
According to PCS data, breast cancer claims approximately 11,857 lives each year, translating to 32 Filipino women losing their battle with the disease daily. Limited access to screening and detection services contributes significantly to late diagnoses.
“We’re not waiting for patients to come to us; we are bringing evidence-based cancer screening directly to their communities,” shared Program Director Dr. Herdee Gloriane C. Luna. This proactive approach aims to catch cancers earlier, improving survival rates.
Mobile Screening Buses Reach Communities
The PCS operates free screening services for breast and cervical cancers through its mobile screening buses. Currently, two buses serve various locations, including Manila, Batangas, Quezon, Laguna, and Baguio.
Operations Manager Roeo Marcaida explained that the buses offer visual inspection of the cervix using acetic acid wash (AAW) to detect precancerous cervical lesions. They also provide cryotherapy treatment and clinical breast examinations (CBE) to identify breast abnormalities.
Experts highlighted that AAW and CBE are recommended by the World Health Organization as primary early screening methods for cervical and breast cancer, especially in resource-limited settings like the Philippines.
Looking Ahead
The expansion of the ACT NOW program reflects a vital step toward reducing cancer mortality by improving early detection. By taking screening services directly to communities, the initiative hopes to save more lives and ease the burden of cancer in the country.
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