In the verdant heart of Laguna, where academic excellence blooms amidst the rich flora, the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) stands not just as a beacon of learning but also as a community deeply invested in the health and welfare of its constituents. This commitment was once again brought to the forefront through an initiative that not only aimed to educate but to save lives: the “Silip Cervix Sagip Buhay” Cervical Cancer Screening Campaign.
A United Front Against Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer, a menace to women’s health worldwide, finds its nemesis in early detection and preventive care. Recognizing this, the Gender and Development Committee, in collaboration with the University Health Services of UPLB, spearheaded an unprecedented campaign aimed at raising awareness and facilitating early detection of cervical cancer within the university community. Their efforts were significantly bolstered by the support from the Philippine Obstetric and Gynecologic Society of Southern Tagalog, a testament to the power of collective action in public health advocacy.
The Campaign Trail
The campaign unfolded over several days, embarking on a journey of education, empowerment, and medical action. It was meticulously designed to engage the university’s diverse community, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their role, had access to life-saving information and services.
Awareness Drives
The cornerstone of the campaign was a series of awareness drives. Through seminars, workshops, and interactive sessions, participants were enlightened about the importance of cervical cancer screening. These sessions were conducted by Dr. Guadalupe Villanueva, Dr. Jovita Jane Revilla, and Dr. Christie Marie Ebeunga – all Fellow of the Philippine Obstetrics and Gynecology Society (POGS) and Dr. Bogs Rivera, a radiation oncologist and founder of CerviQ, debunked myths, clarified misconceptions, and highlighted the crucial fact that early detection could lead to a 100% treatment success rate in the early stages of cervical cancer.
Free Screening Services
In an unprecedented move, the campaign offered free cervical cancer screening services using artificial intelligence-assisted Visual inspection using a colposcope to the UPLB community. These services were conducted by experienced medical professionals from the University Health Services, with the invaluable support of specialists from the Philippine Obstetric and Gynecologic Society of Southern Tagalog. This initiative not only provided a much-needed health service but also emphasized the importance of regular check-ups in cancer prevention.
Empowerment Through Education
Understanding that knowledge is the first step towards prevention, the campaign also focused on educational initiatives. It distributed informative materials across the campus, launched an online information drive, and organized forums that addressed the socio-cultural aspects of cervical cancer. This multi-faceted approach ensured that the message of prevention and early detection resonated throughout the university.
A Beacon of Hope
The Cervical Cancer Screening Campaign at UPLB is a shining example of how academic institutions can play a pivotal role in addressing public health issues. By bringing together the expertise of the Gender and Development Committee, the University Health Services, CerviQ, and the Philippine Obstetric and Gynecologic Society of Southern Tagalog, the campaign has set a benchmark for similar initiatives across the country.
As the campaign wrapped up, its impact was undeniable. Scores of individuals were screened, numerous were educated, and many were empowered to take control of their health. But beyond the numbers, the campaign ignited a spark of hope — a hope that with continued vigilance, education, and preventive care, the battle against cervical cancer is one that can be won.
Looking Forward
The success of the Cervical Cancer Screening Campaign has laid the groundwork for future health initiatives at UPLB. It stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community unites for a cause that transcends individual interests for the greater good. As UPLB continues to nurture minds that will shape the future, it also remains committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of its community — one campaign at a time.
For those interested in learning more about cervical cancer prevention and the importance of regular screenings, the journey starts with awareness and action.
- For individuals who wish to get the screening, you may reach us via our Facebook Page – CLICK HERE
- For organizations who wish to help eliminate cervical cancer screening in the Philippines, kindly visit our page at https://endcervicalcancerph.com/silip-cervix-sagip-buhay-epic-for-providers/
Let this campaign be a reminder that when it comes to our health, being informed and proactive can make all the difference.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors
We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors, whose unwavering support made this initiative possible. Their contributions went beyond financial support, providing us with the resources, equipment, and moral support needed to navigate the complexities of such a large-scale healthcare initiative.
We extend our sincerest gratitude in no particular order:
- Asst Professor Roselle V Collado, Director, UPLB Gender Center
- Sairah Mae Saipudin, University Research Associate II – UPLB Gender Center, and Ms. Kath.
- Dr. Jessie Imelda F. Walde, Director, University Health Service
- Dr Jovita Jane Revilla, OB-Gyne, FPOGS
- Dr. Christie Marie Ebeunga, OB-Gyne, FPOGS
- Dr. Guadalupe Villanueva, OB-Gyne, FPOGS
- Dr. Alvin Isidoro – Municipal Health Officer of Los Banos
- Rotary Club of Los Banos Makiling and Assistant Governor Ethel of the Rotary Club of Pila West
- Other partners who are always ready to help and provide assistance in times of need – Cancer Coalition Philippines, Ms. Carmen “Menchie” Auste, Rotary’s Best People of Action, Rtn Tony Cama of the Rotary Club of Makati F. Zobel, DZRH Public Service Hour with Ms Mae Binauhan, HCP President, TGP Allan Palacio of the Rotary Club of Rizal West, the South San Francisco Rotary Club, Rotary Club of Manila and my club – Rotary Club of Manila South
#silipcervixsagipbuhay #endcervicalcancerph #cerviq
Activity Photos
