The city’s Health Services Office (HSO) is calling on women to undergo free cervical and breast cancer screening, emphasizing that early detection is key to preventing advanced-stage illness and avoiding costly treatments.

“We encourage women to undergo free screenings offered at our main office and the 16 district health units in Baguio,” said City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes in a message sent to the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.

“Remember, early detection can save your life and save you from the hassle and expenses of late-stage cancer, and the inconvenience of going to hospitals for chemotherapies and/or radiation therapies,” Brillantes added.

To make screenings more accessible, the HSO recently held a weekend outreach event in a mall, serving 89 patients. Those who missed it can still access regular cancer screening at their nearest district health center.

The HSO has also opened a dedicated cancer clinic in its building, where a partner oncologist offers weekly consultations, helping decongest the cancer center at Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), which serves the wider Cordillera region.

Since 2022, breast cancer has been the most commonly detected type in the city, followed by lung, colon, stomach, and cervical cancers.

Cancer remains the city’s second leading cause of death, after vascular disease.

All HSO facilities are accredited PhilHealth Konsulta providers, enabling residents to receive services at no cost.

Brillantes reminded the public not to wait for symptoms.

“Get checked—prevention and early detection are your best defense,” she added. (PNA)