Romualdez files bill strengthening cancer early detection programs

Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez has filed a bill seeking to institutionalize annual, community-based cancer early detection programs nationwide.

Under House Bill No. 7942, or the “Cancer Risk Screening and Awareness Act,” early detection initiatives will be carried out through risk profiling, barangay-level screening, and awareness campaigns across municipalities.

The proposed measure also provides for capacity development and training to strengthen the role of barangay health workers in cancer prevention and early detection efforts.

Initially, the program will cover breast, cervical, colorectal (colon), and prostate cancers.

The Department of Health (DOH), upon the recommendation of the National Integrated Cancer Control Council, may expand the list of covered cancers.

The bill also seeks to establish city or municipal cancer registries to monitor prevalence trends, screening results, and follow-up care, while ensuring patient confidentiality in accordance with the Data Privacy Act.

The DOH, in coordination with local government units and health centers, will be tasked with conducting free or subsidized regular barangay-based cancer screenings, with priority given to indigent and high-risk populations.

A referral mechanism to higher-level health facilities will also be set up, including links to PhilHealth benefits and other financial or logistical support services.

The measure further mandates the DOH, in collaboration with stakeholders, to develop a culturally sensitive health education campaign on cancer prevention, early warning signs, and the importance of timely detection and treatment.

Training for barangay health workers will cover prevention, screening support, psychosocial care, referral pathways, and access to financial assistance.

The DOH, together with relevant agencies, will be directed to issue the implementing rules and regulations.

“Evidence shows that early detection significantly improves survival rates while reducing overall treatment costs, making it both a life-saving and cost-effective public health strategy,” Romualdez said.

“By integrating grassroots health workers into systematic cancer risk detection and awareness efforts, the State fulfills its mandate under the Constitution to protect and promote the right to health, while complementing the objectives of Republic Act No. 11215, or the National Integrated Cancer Control Act,” said Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre, the principal author of the proposed measure.—MCG, GMA Integrated News