VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) – The Vigan City Health Office (CHO) is intensifying its efforts to promote the early detection of breast and cervical cancers, urging women to undergo regular screenings for better health outcomes.
Doctor Debbie Jane Prudencio, the Medical Officer IV at the CHO, emphasized the significance of early detection, particularly for women aged 25 to 39, who should undergo a clinical breast exam every one to three years.
For women aged 40 and above, annual exams are recommended.
“It is best to perform the breast exam once a month, approximately seven days after the last day of menstruation,” said Prudencio, noting the importance of consistency in conducting the self-exam.
She explained that screening plays a vital role in identifying women who may be at higher risk for breast and cervical cancers.
“Early detection gives us a better opportunity to offer treatments if symptoms arise, helping to improve outcomes and quality of life,” she added.
In addition to clinical exams, the CHO encourages women to perform regular self-checks for any lumps or unusual changes in their breasts, especially after menstruation.
While breast cancer is often hereditary, Prudencio stressed that prevention remains possible through routine check-ups, whether clinical or self-examination.
Key warning signs of breast cancer include lumps, nipple discharge, changes in the skin of the breast, flattening of the breast, or a wound that doesn’t heal.
To support women in need, the Vigan City government offers comprehensive assistance, including medication, financial aid, and other forms of support for cancer patients.
Recently, as part of its “ELEVATE” program—short for Enhancing Lives through Early Visualization, Awareness, Treatment, and Education—the city government offered free breast and cervical cancer screenings.
The event was held at the Vigan Convention Center and aimed to increase awareness while providing essential screenings for early detection.
The program included informative lectures on breast and cervical cancer, visual inspections with acetic acid (VIA), and clinical breast exams.
Participants also received educational pamphlets on breast cancer and were taught how to conduct self-breast exams.
Private doctors collaborated with the CHO to assist with the screenings, ensuring that participants received expert care.
Prudencio emphasized that the initiative is intended for all women, particularly those of reproductive age, from puberty to menopause.
“We want to empower women to take charge of their health through early detection,” she said.
Shiela Marie Pablo, a 44-year-old health worker from Barangay VII, expressed her appreciation for the initiative.
“This program is beneficial for the community, especially for women,” she said, admitting that she initially felt nervous about her first screening.
“But after experiencing it myself, I encourage others to participate. As a barangay health worker, I urged my neighbors to attend, but many were hesitant—perhaps due to fear. I hope this will help them feel more comfortable, knowing that someone in the community has already participated. I’ll keep encouraging them to join future programs,” Pablo added.
The CHO remains committed to ensuring that women in Vigan are informed and supported in taking proactive steps toward their health, with early detection playing a key role in preventing and managing cancer. (AMB/ATV/AQA, PIA Ilocos Sur)
