Central Luzon Health Department Launches Campaign Against Cervical Cancer in Pampanga

Pampanga – The Department of Health – Central Luzon (DOH-3) launched a vaccination and information drive against human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, aiming to prevent cervical cancer among girls aged 9 to 13. The campaign, titled “Pampanga SHIELD Against Cervical Cancer,” began with the vaccination of 150 students at Guagua National Colleges on Friday. DOH-3 Director Corazon Flores, speaking at the live-streamed event, emphasized the importance of HPV vaccination and encouraged parents and guardians to consent to the protection of their children.

According to Philippines News Agency, Flores assured that the vaccine is safe and effective.

The initiative involves collaboration with local governments, regional agencies, and community organizations to increase awareness and engage the target population. Flores highlighted the significance of timely vaccination to combat the rise of cervical cancer cases in the region. Cervical cancer, primarily caused by HPV, is the second most common type of cancer among women in the Philippines, with an estimated 7,897 new cases and 4,052 deaths annually. The DOH recommends vaccination against HPV for girls aged 9 to 13 as an effective preventive measure, along with regular screening. The event was also attended by Pampanga 2nd District Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Governor Dennis Pineda, and Guagua Mayor Anthony Joseph Torres, showing their support for the health campaign.