Cervical cancer remains a silent yet deadly threat to women worldwide, claiming the lives of thousands annually. In the Philippines, where awareness and access to screening are particularly low, the battle against this disease demands innovative solutions. Enter the CerviQ Advocacy – a transformative force in cervical cancer screening.
The Urgent Need for Change
Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among women globally, with a staggering 12 deaths daily attributed to this relentless disease. Shockingly, in the Philippines, screening rates hover at a dismal 1% among women aged 30 to 49. The barriers are multifaceted, ranging from lack of awareness to scarce screening facilities and expertise.
CerviQ Advocacy: Bridging the Gap with Technology
Traditional screening methods like Cytologic-based screening face implementation challenges due to complex infrastructure and resource requirements. Recognizing this gap, CerviQ Advocacy harnesses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and colposcopy to streamline the screening process. By integrating AI into visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), CerviQ empowers providers with a seamless, objective evaluation of cervical images. This breakthrough not only eliminates the need for manual assessment but also enables remote consultation with physicians for immediate results.
The Power of Daily Barangay-to-Barangay Screening
In many localities, cervical cancer screening is relegated to annual events, limiting its reach and impact. However, achieving the goal of screening 70% of women aged 25 to 55 requires a paradigm shift. The CerviQ Advocacy advocates for daily screening at the grassroots level, employing a task force modeled on barangay health units. Comprising a midwife, a nurse, and a driver, these teams traverse communities, screening up to 20 patients daily. This proactive approach ensures timely detection and intervention, moving closer to the goal of cervical cancer elimination.
Empowering Women Through Accessibility
Beyond detection, CerviQ Advocacy prioritizes accessibility and patient empowerment. Results are swiftly disseminated via email or social media, empowering women to seek further consultation or second opinions. By demystifying the screening process and facilitating informed decision-making, CerviQ transforms the landscape of cervical cancer care in the Philippines.
A Real-World Example: CerviQ Advocacy in Action in Brgy. Batong Malaki, Los Banos
This vision has now become a reality. From April 12 to 30, Los Banos Municipal Health Officer Dr. Alvin Isidoro, in partnership with the Philippine Obstetrics and Gynecology Society – Southern Tagalog, Dr. Christie Ebeunga, Dr. Jane Revilla, and various Rotary Clubs from District 3820, including the Rotary Club of Los Banos Makiling, Rotary Club of Los Banos, and Rotary Club of Pila West, along with CerviQ, will conduct daily barangay-to-barangay screenings. This initiative aims to increase cervical awareness and screen numerous patients to eliminate cervical cancer in Los Banos.
With “BBM” – Barangay Batong Malaki Hon. Chairman Ian N. Kalaw, Hon Elvira Teves, Hon. Rondelle Rizaldo, Hon. Nelson Bandiang, and the members, midwives, and staff of the different barangay in Los Banos
With Hon. Los Banos Municipal Mayor Anthony F. Genuino
With Los Banos Municipal Health Officer Alvin Isidoro, Rotary Club Los Banos Makiling members – PP Maria Elisa Ronan and President-Elect Teresita Natividad.
With San Pedro City Councilor Bernadeth Olivarez and Rotary Club of Pila West – PP Ethel Reuyan
Fruits of the NICCA Localization Summit
The National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA) was signed in 2019 to improve cancer survival rates and reduce the burden on patients and their families. In December 2023, the first NICCA localization summit was organized in Tagaytay to discuss, identify, and share the best practices, models, and innovations in integrated cancer care. The event brought together various stakeholders from both the national and local community levels. It was at this event the realization that an in-depth approach to cervical cancer prevention was needed, and a plan was formulated, which has now come to fruition.
Looking Ahead: A Future Free of Cervical Cancer
As we forge ahead in the fight against cervical cancer, CerviQ Advocacy stands as a beacon of hope. By harnessing technology, community engagement, and patient-centric care, we inch closer to a future where cervical cancer is but a distant memory. Together, let us champion early detection, empower women, and pave the path towards a world free of cervical cancer.