Baguio logs 1,441 cancer related deaths in past three years

Baguio City, Philippines – The number of cancer-related deaths in Baguio city increased over the past three years, prompting the local government, through its health services office, to strengthen its cancer awareness campaigns and free screenings.

In 2022, there were 409 cancer-related deaths in the city, which increased to 466 in 2023 and continued to rise in 2024 with a total of 566 deaths, according to the Baguio City Health Services Office. 

The most common types of cancer recorded in the city in 2022 were lung, breast, and colon cancers. In 2023, topping the list were breast, lung, and brain cancer, while in 2024, breast, lung, and blood cancer listed the highest cases.

With said health issue, Baguio CHSO Cancer Control Program Manager, Dr. Ana Marie Banta urged the public to be aware of the symptoms of cancers for early detection and treatment before they get worse.

Common symptoms of said disease, according to Banta, include weight loss, fatigue, body aches, and coughing (possibly linked to lung cancer). 

She also recommended three practices to help prevent cancer which include maintaining a proper diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding harmful vices such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

To address the problem, free cancer screenings were conducted by the agency for both residents and non-residents of Baguio on February 24. The screenings, which serve as an early detection of the disease, include digital rectal exams, breast screening, cervical screening, and chest X-rays.  

Aside from said activities, the CLGU also provides additional aids for cancer patients through the Cancer Assistance Fund and the Cancer and Supportive-Palliative Medicine Access Program.