Guide Questions answered (I think) in highlighted parts in the outline.

I.

INTRODUCTION
A. Worldwide
B. Philippines

II. TOP CANCERS IN THE PHILIPPINES

A. Top Cancers in General
B. Top Cancers for the Adult Male
C. Top Cancers for the Adult Female
D. Top Cancers for the Pediatric Population
III. COMMON IDENTIFIED RISK FACTORS (AGENT, HOST, ENVIRONMENTAL)
IV. PREVENTIVE MEASURES FROM WHO AND DOH AGAINST MOST COMMON TYPES
V. SCREENING PROCEDURES AND PREVENTIVE VACCINES FOR PREVENTABLE TYPES
VI. CANCER TREATMENT, REHABILITATION, AND PALLIATIVE CARE
VII. AWARENESS PROGRAMS / CANCER ORGANIZATIONS
VIII. REFERENCES
Guide Questions from the manual:
1. Over the last twenty years, has there been a change in the leading causes of cancer death among Filipinos?
Discuss the epidemiology of the top three leading causes of malignancy in the following populations:
Adult female
Adult male
Pedia
2. In general, are there common identified risk factors for different types of cancer? If yes, which of these risk factors
may be modified?
3. At present, what preventive measures are being recommended by the DOH or WHO against the most common
types of malignancies?
Cite specific vaccines or screening procedures for some of the preventable types of cancer.

I.

INTRODUCTION

A. What is Cancer?

Cancer develops when cells in a part of the body begin to grow out of control. Instead of dying, they outlive normal
cells and continue to form new abnormal cells.

Cancer cells can develop because of any abnormal change and/or damage in the DNA. DNA, also known as the
blueprint of life, can be found in every cell which directs all activities.

Normally, when DNA takes damage and/or undergoes abnormal change/s, the body is able to repair it. Cancer can
develop in instances where the body cannot repair any change/s in the DNA. And this damage can be passed on to
the offsprings, which accounts for inherited cancers.

A persons DNA can be damaged by exposure to mutagenic agents in the environment, like radiation and nicotine.
Carcinogens though are the specific mutagens that lead to cancer. Take note that all carcinogens are mutagens, but
not all mutagens are necessarily carcinogens.

Cancer usually forms as a tumor. Some cancers, like leukemia, do not form tumors. Instead, these cancer cells
involve the blood and blood-forming organs and circulate through other tissues where they grow.

Often, cancer cells travel to other parts of the body where they begin to grow and replace normal tissue. This process
is called metastasis. Regardless of where a cancer may spread, however, it is always named for the place it began.
For instance, breast cancer that spreads to the liver is still called breast cancer, not liver cancer.

B. Cancer Wordwide

Cancer is one of the most common causes of death, with nearly 7 million deaths each year worldwide. Right now 24.6
million people are living with cancer, and by 2020 it is projected that there will be 16 million new cancer cases and 10
million cancer deaths every year, if we wont take action to prevent such from happening.

WHO: Cancer Key Facts

Cancers figure among the leading causes of death worldwide, accounting for 8.2 million deaths in 2012 and 1.2
million of these are in WHOs South-East Asia Region, where an estimated 1.7 million new cancer cases are
diagnosed each year. For women in the Region, cancer of the breast and cervix are the most common cancers, whilst
lung and oral cavity cancers are the most common for men.
Lung, liver, stomach, colorectal and breast cancers cause the most cancer deaths each year.
The most frequent types of cancer differ between men and women.
About 30% of cancer deaths are due to the five leading behavioral and dietary risks:
High body mass index
Low fruit and vegetable intake
Lack of physical activity
Tobacco use
Alcohol use
Tobacco use is the most important risk factor for cancer causing over 20% of global cancer deaths and about 70% of
global lung cancer deaths.
Cancer causing viral infections such as HBV/HCV and HPV are responsible for up to 20% of cancer deaths in lowand middle-income countries.
More than 60% of worlds total new annual cases occur in Africa, Asia and Central and South America. These regions
account for 70% of the worlds cancer deaths.
It is expected that annual cancer cases will rise from 14 million in 2012 to 22 million within the next two decades, if no
effective preventive measure is applied.

THREE most common cancers worldwide

Lung cancer (1.61 million or 12.7% of the total)

THREE most common causes of cancer death

Lung cancer (1.38 million deaths or 18.2% of the total)

Breast cancer (1.38 million or 10.9% of the total)

Stomach cancer (738,000 deaths or 9.7% of the total)

Colorectal cancers (1.23 million or 9.7 million)

Liver cancer (696,000 deaths or 9.2% of the total)

WHO: TEN FACTS ABOUT CANCER.

1. There are more than 100 types of cancers; any part of the body can be affected.
2. In 2008, 7.6 million people died of cancer - 13% of all deaths worldwide.
3. About 70% of all cancer deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.
4. Worldwide, the 5 most common types of cancer that kill men are (in order of frequency): lung, stomach, liver,
colorectal and oesophagus.
5. Worldwide, the 5 most common types of cancer that kill women are (in the order of frequency): breast, lung,
stomach, colorectal and cervical. In many developing countries, cervical cancer is the most common cancer.
6. Tobacco use is the single largest preventable cause of cancer in the world causing 22% of cancer deaths
7. One fifth of all cancers worldwide are caused by a chronic infection, for example human papillomavirus (HPV)
causes cervical cancer and hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes liver cancer.
8. Cancers of major public health relevance such as breast, cervical and colorectal cancer can be cured if detected
early and treated adequately.
9. All patients in need of pain relief could be helped if current knowledge about pain control and palliative care were
applied.
10. More than 30% of cancer could be prevented, mainly by not using tobacco, having a healthy diet, being physically
active and moderating the use of alcohol. In developing countries up to 20% of cancer deaths could be prevented
by immunization against the infection of HBV and HPV.
C. Cancer in the Philippines

Seventy-five percent of cancer patients in the Philippines are 50 years old and above while 3.2% belong to the
pediatric age bracket (0 to 14 years). However, cancers can occur at any age.
It is responsible for 5 million deaths out of a total of 50 million deaths in the world every year.

Top 10 Causes of Death in the Philippines:

1. Heart Diseases
2. Vascular Diseases
3. Malignant Neoplasms
4. Pneumonia
5. Accidents
6. Tuberculosis
7. Chronic lower respiratory diseases
8. Diabetes Mellitus
9. Renal diseases
10. Congenital/Neonatal diseases
Top 3: Malignant Neoplasms
2009: Number: 47,732 Rate: 51.8
5-year average (2004-2008): Number: 42,185 Rate:49.6
Cancer has been in the top 3 spot ever since 1999. Prior to that year, it was at the number 4 spot. There is an increase in
the mortality rate however the range and average of deaths for the past 5 years tells us that the statistics are stable. There
is still a lot of room for improvement. Various Department of Health Programs do exist, such as an Anti-smoking and
Cancer Awareness campaigns. However, due to societal influences, smoking remains the top preventable cause of cancer
in all sexes and in all ages.
II.

TOP CANCERS IN THE PHILIPPINES

The table below shows the number of new cases (both sexes) per cancer site in 2010, ranked
according to decreasing number of new cases.

The 10 leading sites comprise 68% of all new cases.

TOP 10 CAUSES OF CANCER DEATHS IN THE PHILIPPINES

1. Breast cancer
In 2010, breast cancer became the most common cancer in the country with 16 percent of a total of 50,000 cases
resulting in death. The disease has also become the leading cause of cancer for Filipino women. Doctors advise women
about constant self-breast examination to detect abnormal growth in the breasts so that the cancer can be treated during
its early stages. Meanwhile, the Philippine Cancer Society has pledged to provide more free mammography services, fine
needle aspiration biopsy, and education campaigns to help more Filipinas in combating the disease.
2. Lung cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer for Filipino men. It was the leading cause of cancer deaths in the country
before it was replaced by breast cancer. Meanwhile, the Philippine Cancer Society expressed concern over the rise in
lung cancer incidences among Filipino women. Experts advise the public to refrain from cigarette smoking as nine out of
ten smokers die from lung cancer. Non-smokers also become prone of lung cancer through second-hand and third-hand
smoke.
3. Liver cancer
Liver cancer is the eight most common cancer in the world. However, it appears that the disease is more common in the
Philippines compared to the lesser number of incidences in the United States. Doctors attribute this to the fact that chronic
hepatitis B affects 10 to 12 percent of all Filipinos. Chronic hepatitis B causes cirrhosis of the liver which is a major risk
factor of liver cancer.
4. Cervical cancer
It is estimated that 12 Filipinas die of cervical cancer each day with 6,000 cases being diagnosed each year. This type of
cancer is common among women from age 30 to 55. Twenty-two in 100,000 women will get cervical cancer and only 44%
of this number will survive the disease. Thus, doctors are urging women to be screened three years after their first sexual
contact. They also strongly recommend administering the cervical cancer vaccine to Filipinas age ten years and above.
5. Colon cancer
Colon cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in the large intestine. It is best detected early through fecal occult
blood test and colonoscopy. It is then treated through surgery which entails removing the affected part of the colon.
Among Filipino personalities who died of the disease are Corazon C. Aquino, Chat Silayan, Rio Diaz, Helen Vela, and
veteran actor Charlie Davao in August 2010.
6. Thyroid cancer

Thyroid cancer is more common in women than in men. In fact, it is the most common cancer for women at age 15 to 24.
Risk factors include family history, exposure to radiation, and not having enough iodine in the diet. It is highly curable by
surgery alone.
7. Rectal cancer
Rectal cancer is caused by cancer cells that grow in the last 15 centimeters of the colon. These cancer cells become
deadly once they travel through the bloodstream and into the other internal organs such as the liver. A diet rich in red meat
and processed meats, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, type-2 diabetes, and alcoholism is found to cause the disease.
8. Ovarian cancer
The Department of Health website cites ovarian cancer as the 5th most common cancer among women. It is considered
a silent killer as it is usually detected when the cancer cells have already spread to other organs such as the lungs and
the liver. In March 2010, the mother of actress Francine Prieto succumbed to Stage 3 ovarian cancer.
9. Prostate cancer
After lung cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer for men. According to Enrique Ona of the National Kidney
and Transplant Institute, prostate cancer develops in 19.3 out of every 100,000 Filipinos. The Department of Health has
already recognized this alarming number and declared June of every year as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.
10. Non-Hodgkins lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphoid tissues such as the lymph nodes or the spleen. It is considered as
the most common type of blood cancer in the United States. Meanwhile, non-Hodgkins lymphoma is a type of
lymphoma that commonly affects adults. Patients with non-Hodgkins lymphoma have a lower survival rate (63%)
compared to patients with Hodgkins lymphoma (90%).
Other Leading Cancer Sites
Ovary (2.9%)
Prostate (2.7%)
Oral (2.5%)
Lymphomas (2.3%)
Pancreas (1.8%)
Bladder (1.8%)
Corpus Uteri (1.6%)
Bone (1.4%)
Brain, Nervous System (1.3%)
Larynx (1.3%)
Kidney (1.3%)
Connective Tissues (1.3)
Esophagus (1.0%)
From www.cancerindex.com/philippines
Population in 2012:

96.5m

People newly diagnosed with cancer (excluding NMSC) / yr:

98,200

Age-standardised rate, incidence per 100,000 people/yr:

140.0

Risk of getting cancer before age 75:

14.8%

People dying from cancer /yr:

59,000

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF LEADING CAUSES OF MALIGNANCY IN THE FOLLOWING POPULATIONS:

ADULT MALE POPULATION

The table below shows the number of new cases in 2010 among men per cancer site, ranked
according to decreasing number of new cases.
The 10 leading sites among men comprise 71% of all new cases (blue part):

TOP THREE LEADING CAUSES IN ADULT MALES:

1. Lung
Lung cancer will be the 2nd leading cancer site for both sexes combined (14%) in 2010. It is the leading site in
males (22%) and the 3rd leading site among females (6%).
An estimated 11,458 new cases in both sexes, 8,772 in males and 2,686 in females, will occur in 2010.
The incidence rates begin to rise at age 40 among males, and at age 45 among females.
Among males, incidence rates had decreased from 1980 to 2002, with an annual change of -0.2%. In females,
there had been an annual decrease of -0.5%.
In 2008, the estimated age-standardized national incidence rates were 17.4 per 100,000 in both sexes, 27.9
among males, and 7.7 among females.
In 2008, four (3.5) out of 100 men and 1 (0.9) out of 100 women would have had a likelihood of getting lung
cancer before age 75.
In 2010, deaths from lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths, 9,184 among both sexes, and 6,987
among males and 2,197 in females.
In 2008, the estimated national standardized mortality rates were 14.2 per 100,000 in both sexes, 22.8 among
males, and 6.4 among females.
In 2008, three (2.8) out of 100 men, and 1 (0.7) out of 100 women would have died from lung cancer before
age 75.
Main cause: Tobacco smoking (87%)
Non-smokers exposed to second-hand and third-hand smokers are at high risk.
1. Third-hand smokers- exposure to tobacco residues in the environment
2. Other causes: air pollution, asbestos, uranium, arsenic, and certain petroleum products
Symptoms:
1. Persistent cough that gets worse over time
2. Constant chest pain

3.
4.
5.
6.

Coughing of blood
Wheezing or shortness of breath
Weight loss and loss of appetite
Frequent lung infection (e.g. bronchitis or pneumonia).

2. Liver
Liver cancer will be the 3rd leading site for both sexes combined (9%) in 2010. It ranks 2nd among males (14%) and
6th among females (4%).
In 2010, there will be an estimated 7,331 new cases among both sexes, 5,522 cases among men and 1,809 cases
among women.
The incidence rates begin to rise at age 35 among males, and age 50 among females.
There was a slight decrease in incidence rates from 1980 to 2002, with an annual change of - 1.2% among males,
and -0.8 among females.
In 2008, the estimated age-standardized national incidence rates were 10.6 per 100,000 in both sexes, 16.5 among
males, and 5.1 among females.
In 2008, two (1.9) out of 100 men and one (0.6) out of 100 women would have had a likelihood of getting liver
cancer before age 75.
In 2010, there will be 6,819 deaths in both sexes, 5,102 in men and 1,717 in women.
In 2008, the estimated national standardized mortality rates were 10 per 100,000 in both sexes, 15.4 among males,
and 4.9 among females.
In 2008, two (1.8) out of 100 men, and one (0.5) out of 100 women would have died from liver cancer before
age 75.
For liver cancers (both sexes) diagnosed between 1993-2002 and using population-specific life tables, the 5-year
relative survival rate of Metro Manila residents (8.5%) was slightly lower compared to Filipino-Americans (11.7%) and
Caucasians (12.3%) in the United States.
For liver cancers (both sexes) diagnosed between 1995-1999 and also using population-specific life tables, survival of
Metro Manila residents (5.3%) was also lower compared to European residents (9.1%) in the Eurocare-4 study.

Most common type of liver cancer: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)

Silent killer since it may have no symptoms in early stage.
Advanced liver cancer, 90% die within a year and most survive for 3-6 months after diagnosis.
Symptoms may manifest late:
1. Bloatedness/ abdominal fullness
2. Jaundice
3. Weakness
4. Fatigue
5. Dull pain in the upper portion of the abdomen
6. Loss of appetite
7. Weight loss

3. Colon/Rectum
In 2010 cancers of the colon and rectum combined will rank 4th for both sexes (7%), 3rd among males (8%) and 4th
among females (6%).
In 2010, there will be 5,787 new cases in both sexes, 3,208 in males and 2,579 in females.
The incidence rates begin to rise steeply at age 50 years in both males and females. The incidence rates rose
steadily from 1980 to 2002, with an annual change of 3% and 3.7% in males and females respectively.
In 2008, the estimated age-standardized national incidence rates for colon and rectum cancers were 8.6 per 100,000
in both sexes, 10.0 among males, and 7.3 among females.
In 2008, one (1.2) out of 100 men and one (0.8) out of 100 women would have had a likelihood of getting
colorectal cancer before age 75.
There will be 3,060 deaths in both sexes, 1,690 in males and 1,370 among females, in 2010.
In 2008, the estimated national standardized mortality rates were 4.7 per 100,000 in both sexes, 5.5 among males,
and 3.9 among females.
In 2008, one (0.6) out of 100 men and less than one (0.4) out of 100 women would have died from colorectal
cancer before age 75.

Cancer of the large intestine and rectum (last 15 cm of the colon).

Begins as adenomatous polyps (benign clumps) and may become malignant
At risk:
1. 50 years old and above
2. Family history of colorectal cancer
3. With inflammatory bowel disease
4. High fat, low fiber diet
5. Smoker, obese and diabetic
Symptoms:
1. Change in bowel habits (e.g. diarrhea, constipation that may last more than a few days
2. Rectal bleeding, dark stool, or bloody stool
3. Abdominal pain or cramping
4. Weakness
5. Fatigue
6. Weight loss

ADULT FEMALE POPULATION

The table below shows the number of new cases in 2010 among women per cancer site, ranked
according to decreasing number of new cases.
The 10 leading sites among women comprise 73% of all new cases.

TOP THREE LEADING CAUSES IN ADULT FEMALES

1. Breast
Breast cancer will be the leading site for both sexes combined (15%) in 2010 and ranks 1st among women (28%).
In 2010, an estimated 12,262 new cases will occur among women.
The incidence rate starts rising steeply at age 30. The incidence rate has been steadily rising since 1980, with an
average annual percentage change of 0.9%.
In 2008, three (3.3) out of 100 women would have had a likelihood of getting breast cancer before age 75.
In 2010, there will be 4,371 deaths from breast cancer, the 3rd leading cause of cancer deaths among both sexes
(8%), and the highest among women (18%).
In 2008, the estimated national age-standardized mortality rate was 11.9 per 100,000 women.
In 2008, one (1.2) out of 100 women would have died from breast cancer before age 75.

Incident rate increases at age of 30.

Highest incident rates: cities of Manila, Quezon City, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Makati, Paraaque, and Pasig
National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. Enumerated signs and symptoms:
1. Tenderness of the nipple
2. Presence of a lump or thickening in or near the breast or underarm area
3. Change in the skin texture (scaly, red or swollen) or enlargement of the pores in the skin of the breast, areola
or nipple. (May resemble the skin of an orange (Peau d orange))
4. Any unexplained change in the shape or size of the breast
5. Dimpling anywhere on the breast
6. Unexplained swelling of the breast on side only
7. Inverted nipple
8. Any nipple discharge (may be clear or bloody)

2. Cervix/Uteri
In 2010 cervix cancer will be the 5th leading site for both sexes combined (6%), and the 2nd among women (11%).
In 2010, an estimated 4,812 new cases will occur.
The incidence rate starts rising steeply at age 30. There was a slight decrease in incidence rate from 1980 to 2002,
with an annual change of -0.3%.
In 2008, the estimated age-standardized national incidence rate was 11.7 per 100,000.
In 2008, one (1.1) out of 100 women would have had a likelihood of getting cervix cancer before age 75.
There will be 1,984 deaths in 2010. In 2008, the estimated national standardized mortality rate was 5.3 per 100,000.
In 2008, one (0.6) out of 100 women would have died from cervix cancer before age 75.
For cervix cancers diagnosed between 1993-2002 and using population-specific life tables, the 5-year relative survival
rate of Metro Manila residents (45.4%) was lower compared to Filipino-Americans (67.2%) and Caucasians (67.4%) in
the United States.
For cervix cancers diagnosed between 1995-1999 and also using population-specific life tables, survival of Metro
Manila residents (38.8%) was also lower compared to European residents (62.6%) in the Eurocare-4 study.

2nd leading site of cancer (11% of all cancer cases).

Incident rate increases at age 30
Highest incident rates: cities of Manila, Makati, Pasay, Pasig, and Taguig and the lowest incidence rates were in the
Rizal Province
Estimated age-standardized national incidence rate: 1 out of 100 is vulnerable to cervical cancer before age 75.
Estimated national standardized mortality rate: 1 out of 100 women may die from cervix cancer before age of 75.
Chronic infection of the cervix: Human papilloma virus= most common cause of cervical cancer (90%).
Precancerous cells- stay dormant; takes 10-15 years before becoming cancer cells.
Symptoms:
1. Abnormal vaginal bleeding or unusual discharge (after vaginal intercourse, after menopause, bleeding/spotting
between periods, heavy bleeding during menstrual periods)
2. Pain during sex

3. Lungs
3rd leading cause of cancer (6% of all cases)
Increased incidence and mortality rates: prevalence of smoking
Risk factors:
1. Third-hand smokes
2. Air pollution
3. Family history of lung cancer
Incident rates increase at age 45 (highest in Metro Manila)
In 2008, estimated age-standardized national incidence rate: 1 out of 100 women likely gets lung cancer before age of
75.
Estimated national standardized mortality rate: 1 out of 100 women might die from lung cancer before age of 75.
Early detection and treatment is still difficult to achieve, survival is still poor.
In 1987, it surpassed breast cancer to become the leading cause of cancer deaths in women. It causes more deaths
than the next three most common cancers combined (colon, breast and pancreatic).
According to the Department of Health, a Filipino smoker puffs 1,073 cigarette sticks annually while other smokers in

the Southeast Asian region consume less than a thousand sticks yearly. Ten Filipinos die every hour because of
smoking, representing a clear picture of the extent of the tobacco epidemic in the country.
PEDIATRIC POPULATION
Cancer among children comprises 3.2% of all cancer cases.
Leukemias are the most common.
Other cancer sites include brain and nervous system, retina, lymph nodes, kidneys, bone and soft tissues, gonadal
and germ cell site.
3,500 new cancer cases in children <15 y/o
In 2008, 8 out 10 children died of cancer
Childhood cancer (0-14 y/o)- 3.5% of all cancer cases.
1. Acute
Lymphocytic/
Acute
Lymphoblastic
Leukemia
Symptoms:
1. Fever without a known cause
2. Easy bruising or bleeding
3. Petechiae (dark-red spots under the skin caused
by bleeding)
4. Bone or joint pain
5. Painless lumps in the neck, stomach, groin, or
underarm
6. Pain or feeling of fullness below the ribs
7. Weakness and fatigue
8. Pale appearance
9. Loss of appetite
10. Recurrent minor infections
11. Abdominal swelling
12. Poor healing of minor cuts
13. Uncontrolled bleeding
14. Vision changes (a rare symptom).

2. Retinoblastoma
Symptoms:
1. White appearance of pupil under direct light
(leukocoria)
2. Eyes that cannot move or focus in the same
direction
3. Eye pain
4. Constantly dilated pupil
5. Red eye or eyes
6. Lazy eye (i.e. squinting of one eye or both eyes)
7. Color change in the iris
8. Deterioration of vision.

3. Lymphoma
Symptoms:
1. Painless swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck,
underarm, groin and chest
2. Difficulty in breathing due to the enlarged nodes in
the chest
3. Fever due to unknown causes
4. Night sweats
5. Fatigue
6. Weight loss and decreased appetite
7. Itchy skin
8. Frequent viral infections (e.g. cold, flu, sinus

Most common cancer in children

In 2010, comprised 65% of all leukemia cases (0-14
y/o); 79% occurs at ages 1-9
Lymphoblasts proliferate in the blood and bone
marrow
National Cancer Institute: overall survival rate of
people with ALL are 66.4% (all ages) and 90.8 %
under 5 y/o.

Most common primary intraocular malignancy in

childhood (4% of pediatric malignancies)
Starts at retina
Occurs 5 years and younger
40% are inherited

2 types:
1. Familial or Hereditary (Bilateral= 25% of cases)
2. Non-Hereditary (Unilateral= 75% of cases)
Common manifestations: Leucoria (whitening of
the pupil; cats eye).
Curable at early diagnosis

Starts in the immune system= Lymphocytes

Grow in the lymph nodes, lymph tissues (tonsils and
thymus
2 types:
1. Hodgkin Lymphoma
4% of childhood lymphoma
2 age groups:
a) Early adulthood (ages 15 to 40, usually in people
who are in their 20s)
b) Late adulthood (after the age of 55)
c) It is rare in children younger than 5 years of age.

9.
10.
11.
12.

infection)
Wheezing
Coughing
High-pitched breathing sounds
Difficulty in swallowing.

2. Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
More likely to occur in children
Rare in children < 3y/o
Accounts 50% of all lymphomas in children
45% of childhood lymphomas occur b/w ages 1014
5-year survival is only 50%

Malignancies in children are difficult to detect because it may present similarly as other common childhood diseases.
Parents should have their children undergo regular medical check-up and be alerted on the following symptoms which
may be associated with cancer in children: prolonged, unexplained fever or illness; unexplained pallor; increased
tendency to bruise; unexplained localized pain or limping; unusual masses or swelling; frequent headaches, often with
vomiting; sudden eye or visual changes; sudden or progressive weight loss.
Management of childhood cancers is usually by a combination of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
A five-year survival rate markedly vary according to the sites of origin of the tumor.

III.
COMMON IDENTIFIED RISK FACTORS (AGENT, HOST, ENVIRONMENTAL)
A. Agent Factors
1. Chemical
Aromatic series: coal, tar, asphalt, aniline dyes and benzidine
Chemicals in insecticides, cosmetics, and food additives
Carcinogens - substances known to cause cancer
1. Direct carcinogens - can cause cancer by themselves
2. Procarcinogens - require actual metabolization and chemical change before they become
carcinogenic.
3. Co-carcinogens - only cause cancer when paired with other chemicals.
2. Physical
a. Radiation Energy
UV rays, alpha and beta rays, gamma or x-rays, and heat radiation (e.g. atomic bombs during wars
like Nagasaki and Hiroshima = many leukemias among affected survivors)
Leukemia: most common radiation-induced cancer.
Other types of cancer correlated with radiation exposure include lung cancer, skin cancer, multiple
myelomas, and stomach cancer.
b. Mechanical
Chronic irritation and trauma (e.g. projecting tooth, birth injuries, gallbladder stones, burn scars)
3. Nutritional
Vitamin deficiencies and other nutrient deficiencies
Low-fiber intake
High fat diet in breast and colorectal cancer
4. Biological
Viruses - Some viruses are linked with cancer in humans and are appropriately termed as oncoviruses.
Very common viruses today that are correlated with cancer include Hepatitis B (liver infection which may
cause hepatocellular cancer)
Epstein-Barr virus(mononucleosis/kissing disease may cause nasopharyngeal cancer, lymphomas,
stomach cancer)
human papilloma virus (from sexual practices may lead to cervical cancer).

B. Host Factors
1. Age
Cancer incidence is directly related with increasing age

However, some particular cancer types have characteristic age predilections such as:
o Nephroblastoma and retinoblastoma (children)
o Testicular cancer (adolescent males)
o Hodgkins disease (peak in childhood and young adulthood).
Two kinds of mechanisms have been suggested to explain the increase in cancer risk with age
1. Simple dose-duration- effects of carcinogenic exposures, regardless of any effects of aging.
2. Age-associated increase in cancer risk
Aging may increase susceptibility of an organism to cancer due to:
o Disturbance of hormonal balance
o An increase in the number of loci of chronic proliferation
o Decline in immune surveillance with age.

2. Sex
a. Sex hormones
Hepatocellular carcinoma or HCC is statistically more often found in males than in females.
Interleukin 6- found to aid in the progression of HCC. Higher in males. Lower in females due to protective
effect of estrogen.
Estrogen- protects females from Colorectal cancer
b. Chromosome related effect
Males have one copy of the X chromosome as part of their genetic make-up as opposed to females having
two. The X chromosome inactivation in females takes place in order to achieve gene dosage adjustment. As a
result, the same X chromosome is expressed in approximately half of the cells of females. If an X
chromosome gene has a mutation or a deleterious polymorphism, all male cells will lack its protein product,
but 50% of female cells may still have the functional protein provided that the other copy of the gene is
functional.
3. Race
Skin Cancer: Caucasian
Prostate Cancer: Black than whites (hormonal, dietary, genetic)
Pancreatic cancer: Ashkenazi Jews of European descent (also breast, ovarian, pancreatic, uterine, and
prostate cancer)
4. Heredity
With Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Colorectal and hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) syndrome
Thyroid Cancer and Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN) syndrome
5. Habits and Customs
Circumcision- reducing STDs (males and females) thus reduced prostate cancer (males)
C. Environmental Factors
Cervical cancer is more common in the low income group
Lung cancer common among sugar cane farmers which may be due to exposure to fibers of biogenic
amorphous silica (BAS)
Rising lung cancer incidence with increased pollution of atmospheric air with smoke
1. Occupational risks are mainly concerned with the particular types of exposure to carcinogens an individual has
because of the nature of his or her work.
Lung cancer sugar cane farmers (increased pollution of atmospheric air with smoke)
Arsenic exposure mining, smelting, vineyard milling and pesticide production. These are known to be
associated with bladder and liver cancer.
Asbestos exposure shipbuilding as well as metal and cement industries. (mesothelioma)
Formaldehyde exposure medical technologists, pathologists and those involved in the textile and plywood
industry (nasal cavity cancer)
Benzene exposure is common in shoe production, pharmaceutical, rubber, printing and gasoline industries.
(lymphatic and hematopoietic types of cancer)

 Occupations that require prolonged exposure to radiation soft-tissue sarcomas.

2. Economical risks play a more indirect role in affecting the risk of cancer.
Higher incidence of cancer development in women belonging to low-income families because of fewer
opportunities for cancer screening.
IV.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES FROM WHO AND DOH AGAINST MOST COMMON TYPES

LESSEN THE RISK OF DEVELOPING CANCER THROUGH HEALTH PROMOTION AND SPECIFIC PROTECTION:
There is no 100% guarantee that cancer can ever be prevented. However, being aware of the cancer risk factors will
help reduce the possibility of cancer.
(BY WHO)
1. Quit smoking.
Tobacco use is the single greatest avoidable risk factor for cancer mortality worldwide, causing an estimated
22% of cancer deaths per year. In 2004, 1.6 million of the 7.4 million cancer deaths were due to tobacco use.
Tobacco smoking causes many types of cancer, including cancers of the lung, oesophagus, larynx (voice
box), mouth, throat, kidney, bladder, pancreas, stomach and cervix. About 70% of the lung cancer burden can
be attributed to smoking alone. Second-hand smoke (SHS), also known as environmental tobacco smoke,
has been proven to cause lung cancer in nonsmoking adults. Smokeless tobacco (also called oral tobacco,
chewing tobacco or snuff) causes oral, oesophageal and pancreatic cancer.
2. Limit drinking of alcoholic beverages.
Alcohol use is a risk factor for many cancer types including cancer of the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx,
oesophagus, liver, colorectum and breast. Risk of cancer increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.
The risk from heavy drinking for several cancer types (e.g. oral cavity, pharynx, larynx and oesophagus)
substantially increases if the person is also a heavy smoker.
Attributable fractions vary between men and women for certain types of alcohol-related cancer, mainly
because of differences in average levels of consumption. For example, 22% of mouth and oropharynx
cancers in men are attributable to alcohol whereas in women the attributable burden drops to 9%. A similar
sex difference exists for oesophageal and liver cancers (Rehm et al., 2004).
3. Watch your diet.
Dietary modification is another important approach to cancer control. There is a link between overweight and
obesity to many types of cancer such as oesophagus, colorectum, breast, endometrium and kidney. Diets
high in fruits and vegetables may have a protective effect against many cancers. Conversely, excess
consumption of red and preserved meat may be associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. In
addition, healthy eating habits that prevent the development of diet-associated cancers will also lower the risk
of cardiovascular disease.
4. Do regular physical activity.
Regular physical activity and the maintenance of a healthy body weight, along with a healthy diet, will
considerably reduce cancer risk. National policies and programmes should be implemented to raise
awareness and reduce exposure to cancer risk factors, and to ensure that people are provided with the
information and support they need to adopt healthy lifestyles.
5. Have yourself immunized (Hepatitis B vaccine at birth up to 6 months old for prevention of liver cancer,
and human papilloma virus vaccine for the prevention of cervical cancer among women).
Infectious agents are responsible for almost 22% of cancer deaths in the developing world and 6% in
industrialized countries. Viral hepatitis B and C cause cancer of the liver; human papilloma virus infection
causes cervical cancer; the bacterium Helicobacter pylori increases the risk of stomach cancer. In some
countries the parasitic infection schistosomiasis increases the risk of bladder cancer and in other countries
the liver fluke increases the risk of cholangiocarcinoma of the bile ducts. Preventive measures include
vaccination and prevention of infection and infestation.
6. Maintain a clean environment.

Environmental pollution of air, water and soil with carcinogenic chemicals accounts for 14% of all cancers
(IARC/WHO, 2003). Exposure to carcinogenic chemicals in the environment can occur through drinking water
or pollution of indoor and ambient air.
In Bangladesh, 510% of all cancer deaths in an arsenic-contaminated region were attributable to arsenic
exposure (Smith, Lingas & Rahman, 2000). Exposure to carcinogens also occurs via the contamination of
food by chemicals, such as aflatoxins or dioxins. Indoor air pollution from coal fires doubles the risk of lung
cancer, particularly among non-smoking women (Smith, Mehta & Feuz, 2004). Worldwide, indoor air pollution
from domestic coal fires is responsible for approximately 1.5% of all lung cancer deaths. Coal use in
households is particularly widespread in Asia.

7. Be aware of occupational carcinogens.

More than 40 agents, mixtures and exposure circumstances in the working environment are carcinogenic to
humans and are classified as occupational carcinogens (Siemiatycki et al., 2004). That occupational
carcinogens are causally related to cancer of the lung, bladder, larynx and skin, leukaemia and
nasopharyngeal cancer is well documented. Mesothelioma (cancer of the outer lining of the lung or chest
cavity) is to a large extent caused by work-related exposure to asbestos.
Occupational cancers are concentrated among specific groups of the working population, for whom the risk of
developing a particular form of cancer may be much higher than for the general population. About 2030% of
the male and 520% of the female working-age population (people aged 1564 years) may have been
exposed to lung carcinogens during their working lives, accounting for about 10% of lung cancers worldwide.
About 2% of leukaemia cases worldwide are attributable to occupational exposures.
8. Avoid/Decrease exposure to radiation.
Ionizing radiation is carcinogenic to humans. Knowledge on radiation risk has been mainly acquired from
epidemiological studies of the Japanese A-bomb survivors as well as from studies of medical and
occupational radiation exposure cohorts. Ionizing radiation can induce leukaemia and a number of solid
tumours, with higher risks at young age at exposure.
Residential exposure to radon gas from soil and building materials is estimated to cause between 3% and
14% of all lung cancers, making it the second cause of lung cancer after tobacco smoke. Radon levels in
homes can be reduced by improving the ventilation and sealing floors and walls. Ionizing radiation is an
essential diagnostic and therapeutic tool. To guarantee that benefits exceed potential radiation risks
radiological medical procedures should be appropriately prescribed and properly performed, to reduce
unnecessary radiation doses, particularly in children.
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and in particular solar radiation, is carcinogenic to humans, causing all major types
of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma. Globally
in 2000, over 200 000 cases of melanoma were diagnosed and there were 65 000 melanoma-associated
deaths. Avoiding excessive exposure, use of sunscreen and protective clothing are effective preventive
measures. UV-emitting tanning devices are now also classified as carcinogenic to humans based on their
association with skin and ocular melanoma cancers.
EARLY DETECTION OF CANCER
Early detection of cancer greatly increases the chances for successful treatment.
Early diagnosis is particularly relevant for cancers of the breast, cervix, mouth, larynx, colon and rectum, and
skin.
There are two major components of early detection of cancer:
1. Education to promote early diagnosis
2. Screening
Increased awareness of possible warning signs of cancer, among physicians, nurses and other health care
providers as well as among the general public, can have a great impact on the disease.

SOME EARLY SIGNS OF CANCER INCLUDE:

Breast or Testicular Lumps
Sores that fail to heal
Abnormal bleeding
Persistent indigestion
Chronic hoarseness or cough
Change in wart or mole
Change in bowel movements
Swelling or soreness that doesnt get better
Unexplained weightloss

(BY DOH)
SPECIFIC PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR THE MOST COMMON CANCERS:
Bone Cancer
o Prevention of bone cancer will require a better understanding of its causes than is currently available.
o Patients with persistent and progressive bone pain should have an x-ray study of the bone.
o Early detection is extremely difficult in asymptomatic patients.
o Careful screening may help detect and treat the cancer in its early stages, thereby improving the chances
for survival.

Breast Cancer
o Generally, breast cancer cannot be prevented, particularly if a woman has a family history of breast
cancer. To minimize contributing risk factors:
Eat a healthy diet consisting of high-fiber foods (cruciferous vegetables, foods rich in Vitamins A
and C);
Get enough exercise (Be active to maintain body muscles flexibility.);
Maintain ideal body weight;
Undergo mammography and BSE.
Breast Self-Examination

Common Cancer in Children

o Malignancies in children are difficult to detect because they may present similarly as other common
childhood diseases. Parents should have their children undergo regular medical check-up and be alerted
to the symptoms.

Cervical Cancer
o Cervical cancer, when detected early, is curable.
o Pap smear is the most reliable and practical way to diagnose early cervical cancer.
o Pap smear should be done 3 years after the first vaginal intercourse but not earlier than age 21. After that,
it should be done every year for 3 years.
o If the Pap smear test is negative for 3 consecutive years, then it can be done every 2 or 3 years. In
unmarried women who have never engaged in sexual activity, Pap smear should be done at age 35.
o Visual inspection with Acetic Acid Wash (VIA) is an acceptable alternative to Pap smear in low-resource
setting.
o The following preventive measures should be followed:
A one-partner sexual relationship should be observed;
A delay on the first sexual intercourse;
Consistent and correct use of barrier contraceptives, like condoms during sexual intercourse; and
Vaccination of anti-cervical cancer vaccine (HPV Vaccine).

Colon Cancer
o The most effective prevention of colon cancer is early detection and removal of precancerous colon
polyps before they turn cancerous.
o Barium enema or colonoscopy can be used for early diagnosis of symptomatic patients (particularly those
aged 50 years old and above).

Liver Cancer
o Lowering the prevalence of Hepatitis B through infant vaccination and improving sanitation nationwide is a
positive step.
o Unfortunately, there is no efficient early detection method yet for liver cancer.

Lung Cancer
o Unfortunately, there is no effective way of detecting lung cancer in its early stages.
o The best approach to lung cancer prevention is to stop smoking
o Also, the following may help prevent lung cancer:
Avoid secondhand smoke.

V.

Eat a healthy diet.

Exercise.

SCREENING PROCEDURES AND PREVENTIVE VACCINES FOR PREVENTABLE TYPES

SCREENING
Screening refers to the use of simple tests across a healthy population in order to identify individuals who have
disease, but do not yet have symptoms. Examples include breast cancer screening using mammography and cervical
cancer screening using cytology screening methods, including Pap smears.
Screening programmes should be undertaken only when their effectiveness has been demonstrated, when resources
(personnel, equipment, etc.) are sufficient to cover nearly all of the target group, when facilities exist for confirming
diagnoses and for treatment and follow-up of those with abnormal results, and when prevalence of the disease is high
enough to justify the effort and costs of screening.
SCREENING FOR VARIOUS CANCERS
Screening is the presumptive identification of unrecognized disease or defects by means of tests, examinations, or
other procedures that can be applied rapidly.
In advocating screening programmes as part of early detection of cancer, it is important for national cancer control
programmes to avoid imposing the high technology of the developed world on countries that lack the infrastructure
and resources to use the technology appropriately or to achieve adequate coverage of the population.
The success of screening depends on having sufficient numbers of personnel to perform the screening tests and on
the availability of facilities that can undertake subsequent diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up.
A number of factors should be taken into account when the adoption of any screening technique is being
considered:
Sensitivity: the effectiveness of a test in detecting a cancer in those who have the disease
Specificity: the extent to which a test gives negative results in those that are free of the disease
Positive predictive value: the extent to which subjects have the disease in those that give a positive test
result
Negative predictive value: the extent to which subjects are free of the disease in those that give a negative
test result
Acceptability: the extent to which those for whom the test is designed agree to be tested

Policies on early cancer detection will differ markedly between countries. An industrialized country may conduct
screening programmes for cervical and breast cancer.
Such programmes are not, however, recommended in the least developed countries in which there is a low
prevalence of cancer and a weak health care infrastructure. Further, only organized screening programmes are likely
to be fully successful as a means of reaching a high proportion of the at-risk population.

The success of screening programmes depends on a number of fundamental principles:

The target disease should be a common form of cancer, with high associated morbidity or mortality
Effective treatment, capable of reducing morbidity and mortality, should be available
Test procedures should be acceptable, safe, and relatively inexpensive

Agreement needs to be reached on guidelines to be applied in the national cancer control programme
concerning:
The frequency of screening and ages at which screening should be performed;
Quality control systems for the screening tests;
Defined mechanisms for referral and treatment of abnormalities;
An information system that can:
- send out invitations for initial screening
- recall individuals for repeat screening
- follow those with identified abnormalities
- monitor and evaluate the programme

VACCINES

Cancer vaccines are medicines that belong to a class of substances known as biological response modifiers.
Biological response modifiers work by stimulating or restoring the immune systems ability to fight infections and
disease. There are two broad types of cancer vaccines:
1. Preventive (or prophylactic) vaccines, which are intended to prevent cancer from developing in
healthy people
2. Treatment (or therapeutic) vaccines, which are intended to treat an existing cancer by
strengthening the bodys natural defenses against the cancer.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified several microbes as carcinogenic
(causing or contributing to the development of cancer in people:
Infectious Agents
Type OfAssociated Cancers
Vaccines or Screening Procedures
Organism
Hepatitis B Virus (Hbv)
Virus
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (A Type Of Hepa B Vaccine
Liver Cancer)
Hepatitis C Virus (Hcv)
Virus
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (A Type Of No Hepa C Vaccine.
Liver Cancer)
Prevention:
Don't share personal care items that
might have blood on them
Never share needles, syringes,
water
Get vaccinated against hepatitis A
and hepatitis B if you are a drug
user
Consider the risks of getting tattoos
or body piercings.
Human Papillomavirus (Hpv) Virus
Cervical Cancer; Vaginal Cancer; Vulvar HPV Vaccine
Types 16 And 18, As Well As
Cancer;
Oropharyngeal
Cancer Pap Smear
Other HPV Types
(cancers of the base of the tongue, Acetic Acid Wash
tonsils, or upper throat); Anal Cancer;
Penile
Cancer;
Squamous
Cell
Carcinoma Of The Skin
Epstein-Barr Virus
Virus
Burkitt
Lymphoma;
Non-Hodgkin EBV vaccine is still under development
Lymphoma;
Hodgkin
Lymphoma;
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma (cancer of
the upper part of the throat behind the
nose)
Kaposi Sarcoma-Associated Virus
Kaposi Sarcoma
KSHV
vaccine
is
still
under
Herpes virus (KSHV), Also
development; under EBV vaccine
Known
As
Human
development study
Herpesvirus 8 (Hhv8)
Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus
Adult T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma
No developed vaccine
Virus Type 1 (HTLV1)
Helicobacter Pylori
Bacterium Stomach Cancer; Mucosa-Associated No developed vaccine
Lymphoid Tissue (Malt) Lymphoma
If infected with H. pylori, antimicrobial
treatment may avoid ulcer formation
and extension of disease
Schistosomes (Schistosoma Parasite Bladder Cancer
No official vaccine.
Hematobium)
Praziquantel The treatment of choice
for all schistosome species
Liver Flukes (Opisthorchis Parasite Cholangiocarcinoma (A Type Of Liver No developed vaccine
Viverrini)
Cancer)
VI.

CANCER TREATMENT

TREATMENT
Cancer treatment requires a careful selection of one or more intervention, such as surgery, radiotherapy, and
chemotherapy. The goal is to cure the disease or considerably prolong life while improving the patient's quality of life.
Cancer diagnosis and treatment is complemented by psychological support.
Treatment of early detectable cancers
Some of the most common cancer types, such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, oral cancer and colorectal cancer
have higher cure rates when detected early and treated according to best practices.
Treatment of other cancers with potential for cure
Some cancer types, even though disseminated, such as leukemias and lymphomas in children, and testicular
seminoma, have high cure rates if appropriate treatment is provided.
REHABILITATIVE CARE
The goal of rehabilitation is to help a person regain control over many aspects of their lives and remain as
independent and productive as possible. Rehabilitation can be valuable to anyone with cancer and those recovering
from cancer treatment.
How cancer rehabilitation can help
Rehabilitation can improve the quality of life for people with cancer and their families, including:
Improving physical strength to help offset any limitations from cancer and cancer treatment
Helping the person with cancer become more independent and less reliant on caregivers
Helping the person with cancer adjust to actual, perceived, and potential losses due to cancer and cancer
treatment
Reducing sleep problems
Lowering the number of hospitalizations
PSYCHOLOGICAL
Psychological stress alone has not been found to cause cancer, but psychological stress that lasts a long time may
affect a persons overall health and ability to cope with cancer.
People who are better able to cope with stress have a better quality of life while they are being treated for cancer, but
they do not necessarily live longer.
Emotional and social support can help patients learn to cope with psychological stress. Such support can reduce
levels of depression, anxiety, and disease- and treatment-related symptoms among patients. Approaches can include
the following:
1. Training in relaxation, meditation, or stress management
2. Counseling or talk therapy
3. Cancer education sessions
4. Social support in a group setting
5. Medications for depression or anxiety
6. Exercise
PALLIATIVE CARE
Palliative care is treatment to relieve, rather than cure, symptoms caused by cancer. Palliative care can help people
live more comfortably; it is an urgent humanitarian need for people worldwide with cancer and other chronic fatal
diseases. It is particularly needed in places with a high proportion of patients in advanced stages where there is little
chance of cure.
Relief from physical, psychosocial and spiritual problems can be achieved in over 90% of advanced cancer patients
through palliative care.
Palliative care strategies
Effective public health strategies, comprising of community- and home-based care are essential to provide pain
relief and palliative care for patients and their families in low-resource settings.
Improved access to oral morphine is mandatory for the treatment of moderate to severe cancer pain, suffered by
over 80% of cancer patients in terminal phase.
VII.

AWARENESS PROGRAMS / CANCER ORGANIZATIONS

WHO RESPONSE
In 2013, WHO launched the Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases 2013-2030
that aims to reduce by 25% premature mortality from cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and chronic respiratory
diseases.
WHO and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), the specialized cancer research agency of WHO,
collaborate with other United Nations organizations and partners to:

Increase political commitment for cancer prevention and control;

Coordinate and conduct research on the causes of human cancer and the mechanisms of carcinogenesis;

Develop scientific strategies for cancer prevention and control;

Generate new knowledge, and disseminate existing knowledge to facilitate the delivery of evidence-based
approaches to cancer control;

Develop standards and tools to guide the planning and implementation of interventions for prevention, early
detection, treatment and care;

Facilitate broad networks of cancer control partners and experts at global, regional and national levels;

Strengthen health systems at national and local levels to deliver cure and care for cancer patients; and

Provide technical assistance for rapid, effective transfer of best practice interventions to developing countries

Cancer Organizations in The Philippines (from www.cancerindex.org)

Philippine Cancer Society, Inc. (PCSI)
PCSI
An independent non-profit organisation founded in 1956 with the aim of helping the Filipino cope with cancer by
preventing it and diminishing death caused by it, especially among the disadvantaged, through information, education,
advocacy and focused services.
Cancer Institute Foundation, Inc.
CIF
A non-stock, non-profit organization based in Manila, which supports the UP-PGH Cancer Institute and its accredited
cancer management network institutions with clinical, research, advocacy and financial assistance for the prevention and
treatment of cancer.
Cancer Warriors Foundation
CWF
Volunteer and support organisation founded in 2000, a living legacy of a cancer survivor: James who was diagnosed with
a brain tumour at age 19. Childhood Cancer
Philippine Brain Tumor Alliance
Patient alliance and Facebook group. Brain and Spinal Cord Tumours
Philippine Breast Cancer Network
PBCN
A not-for-profit volunteer service network founded in 1997 focused on identifying the environmental causes of breast
cancer for the prevention, early intervention and ultimate eradication of the disease. Breast Cancer

Philippine Society of Medical Oncology

PSMO
A scientific, professional organization of competent and caring oncologists committed to the advancement of the science
and the ethical and holistic practice of Medical Oncology and to active participation in the national, regional, and global
cancer programs. Medical Oncology / Clinical Oncology
Philippines Surgical Oncology Society
Society of Gynecologic Oncologists of the Philippines
SGOP
Professional organization founded 1985.
UICC member organisations: Phillippines
Union for International Cancer Control
WHO: WORLD CANCER DAY
Each year on 4 February, WHO and International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) supports Union for
International Cancer Control (UICC) to promote ways to ease the global burden of cancer.
Monthly Awareness Campaigns (Philippine Cancer Society)
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Philippines (June)
No sa Yo July Campaign (July)
What is it about Lung Cancer July Campaign (July)
HBV Vaccination Sept Campaign (September)
Breast Cancer Awareness Oct Campaign (October)
What Meal for Cancer Prevention Dec Campaign (December)
Awareness Months and Ribbons

VIII. REFERENCES:
1. International Agency for Research on Cancer (http://www.iarc.fr/)
2. Department of Health (http://www.doh.gov.ph/content/philippine-cancer-control-program.html)
3. World Health Organization (http://www.who.int)
4. National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health (http://www.cancer.gov/)
5. Philippine Cancer Index (www.cancerindex.com/philippines)
6. Philippine Cancer Society (http://www.philcancer.org.ph/)
7. Review Notes and Manual in Disease Prevention and Control in the Family and the Community, 8 th Edition,
University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Inc.

8. 2017A Cancer Report