Cervical cancer causes: understanding the key factors behind its prevalence in Filipino women
Posted :
Updated :
Cervical cancer, primarily caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV), is the second most common cancer affecting Filipino women. Alarmingly, reports indicate that 12 Filipinas die daily due to this disease. HPV infection is a major factor in the development of cervical cancer, which makes prevention and early detection critical.1
Cervical cancer not only affects the physical health of Filipino women but also significantly impacts their emotional well-being and finances. The disease can lead to long-term health complications, financial strain from medical bills, and emotional distress for both the patients and their families. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve outcomes, but many women remain unaware of the risks until symptoms emerge, often too late.2,4
What is cervical cancer
Cervical cancer develops when abnormal cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably, often due to a persistent HPV infection. Over time, these abnormal cells can spread to other parts of the reproductive system and beyond, causing significant health complications. Early-stage cervical cancer often has no symptoms, making regular screening vital for early detection.
Types of cervical cancer
There are two main types of cervical cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma: The most common type, accounting for 90% of cervical cancer cases. It originates in the thin, flat cells lining the cervix.6
- Adenocarcinoma: This type starts in the glandular cells of the cervix, which produce mucus. It’s less common but can be more difficult to detect early.2
Both types require early detection and prompt treatment for better outcomes.
What causes cervical cancer?
Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV infection. In many women, this virus poses no risk and goes away on its own. However, in some cases, it can trigger cell changes that eventually lead to cervical cancer.
Besides HPV infection, the following factors also increase the risk of having cervical cancer:
- Persistent HPV infection
When high-risk strains of HPV remain in the body for many years, they can cause abnormal changes in cervical cells that may develop into cancer if left untreated.
- Lack of regular cervical screening
Not undergoing routine Pap smears or HPV tests can delay the detection of precancerous changes. This allows the disease to progress unnoticed.
- Weakened immune system
A compromised immune system, whether due to illness, long-term medication, or other health conditions, may reduce the body’s ability to fight HPV infections effectively.
- Smoking
Tobacco use exposes the body to harmful chemicals that can damage cervical cells and make it harder for the immune system to clear HPV infections.
- Early sexual activity or multiple sexual partners
These factors increase the likelihood of HPV exposure, which raises the risk of cervical cancer over time.
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives
Extended use of birth control pills has been linked to a slightly higher risk of cervical cancer, particularly when combined with other risk factors.
- Multiple full-term pregnancies
Women who have had several full-term pregnancies may have an increased risk, possibly due to hormonal changes or immune system factors.
- Limited access to healthcare and preventive measures
Lack of access to vaccination, regular screenings, and early treatment can significantly increase the risk of developing cervical cancer.
What increases your risk?
- Cigarette smoking
- Early sexual activity
- Increased number of sexual partners
- Other sexually transmitted infection
- Exposure to medicines that prevent miscarriage
Prevention: How vaccination and regular screening can help
The HPV vaccine is a key tool in preventing cervical cancer, as it protects against the HPV strains responsible for up to 93% of cases.3 Vaccination can be most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, ideally in younger individuals. Regular screening, such as Pap smears or HPV tests, is also crucial for detecting abnormal cell changes early, allowing for prompt intervention and reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer.
By combining HPV vaccination with regular screenings, women can significantly lower their risk and achieve better financial preparedness against potential health costs.
The Staggering Reports on Cervical Cancer in the Philippines
Many cervical cancer cases are preventable through HPV vaccination, which protects against high-risk HPV strains such as types 16 and 18, responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases worldwide. Combined with regular screening, vaccination plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of developing cervical cancer. Despite the proven effectiveness of the vaccine, reports indicate that only 1% of Filipino women get cervical and breast cancer screening. This is one of the lowest screening rates of breast and cervical cancer in the world. Regular screenings, in combination with vaccination, can dramatically reduce the incidence of these cancers and improve early detection rates.3,5
Yearly, more than 7,800 Filipinas are diagnosed with cervical cancer, with over 4,000 dying from it5. The overall 5-year survival rate for cervical cancer in the Philippines is 44%. The low-survival rate has been linked to late-stage diagnosis, coupled with challenges, such as unavailability, inaccessibility, or unaffordability of treatment.2
The high cost of cervical cancer treatment
Being diagnosed with any type of cancer often brings about heightened stress, anxiety, and a range of complex emotions to the patient and their family. It opens a load of concerns – from the toll on the patient’s physical health, the type of treatment, and how one’s quality of life will be affected during treatment.
In addition to all these concerns, many Filipinas are also worried about the cost of treatment, which can range anywhere from Php100,000 to more than Php1,000,000. Chemotherapy, a common treatment for cervical cancer, is priced at Php20,000 per session a minimum. Apart from this, the patient may also expect to spend money on hospital confinement, maintenance meds, and hiring a caregiver. Resigning from work – should it be necessary – also poses financial burdens.
These mounting costs may force families to take drastic actions, such as emptying their bank accounts and selling properties, both of which have negative implications of their own.
Prevention beyond vaccination
While the HPV vaccine plays a crucial role in preventing cervical cancer, lifestyle factors and early detection of precancerous changes are equally important in reducing the risk. Here are some key preventive measures:
- Healthy lifestyle choices: Maintaining a balanced diet, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking can strengthen the immune system and lower the risk of HPV infection and cervical cancer.
- Regular screenings: Pap smears and HPV tests are vital for detecting precancerous changes in the cervix. Early intervention can prevent the progression of abnormal cells into cancer.
- Safe sexual practices: Reducing the number of sexual partners and using barrier protection (e.g., condoms) can help prevent HPV transmission, lowering the likelihood of developing cervical cancer.
By adopting these practices alongside vaccination, women can significantly enhance their financial preparedness for future health expenses and reduce their risk of cervical cancer.
Let Healthflex protect you and your family
Safeguard your health and finances with Manulife HealthFlex a comprehensive health insurance that can protect you and your family from the substantial costs associated with many critical illnesses, including cervical cancer.
With HealthFlex, you can get protection for every step of your way, from early-stage diagnosis, hospitalization, and up to your recovery. For only PHP 77 pesos per day,7 you can get protection from cervical cancer and coverage for more than 100 critical illnesses until age 100. This plan also waives your premiums should you be diagnosed with any of the covered illnesses, offering you financial relief during challenging times. It also provides annual dividends, giving you the option to withdraw funds at your convenience or let them accumulate for added financial security until maturity.
If you’re worried about cervical cancer, or other common critical illnesses, such as heart attack and stroke, it’s best to invest in a comprehensive health insurance plan that matches your needs and health priorities.7
To know more, get in touch with us today!
Key takeaways
- HPV is the primary cause of cervical cancer, significantly increasing the risk of developing the disease.
- Early detection through regular screenings like Pap smears can reduce the risk of cervical cancer.
- Cervical cancer symptoms may include vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain, often not appearing until later stages.
- Treatment options like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation are most effective when the cancer is detected early.
- Cervical cancer impacts Filipino women not only physically, but also emotionally and financially, especially due to late-stage diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions
Early-stage cervical cancer often has no symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or unusual discharge.
The HPV vaccine protects against high-risk HPV strains such as types 16 and 18, which are responsible for most cervical cancer cases. Vaccination helps prevent the initial HPV infection that can lead to cervical cancer.
Look into government assistance programs, charity organizations, or hospital payment plans. Some non-profit groups also offer financial support or guidance for treatment options.
Yes, many health insurance policies cover the cost of cervical cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. It's important to review your policy to understand coverage specifics.
Women should follow their healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding the frequency of cervical cancer screening.
References:
1. 12 Filipino women die daily from cervical cancer: DOH, Accessed January 25, 2024
2. Cervical Cancer: Symptoms and Causes, Accessed January 25, 2024
3. Cervical Cancer is Preventable, Accessed January 25, 2024
4. Philippines: Human Papillomavirus and Related Cancers, Fact Sheet 2023, Accessed January 25, 2024
5. Only 1% of PH women screened for breast, cervical cancer, Accessed January 25, 2024
6.Cervical Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Health Professional Version, https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical/hp/cervical-treatment-pdq, Accessed May 13, 2025
7. P77 per day is for a female age 30 with HealthFlex 3CI+ pay to 60
Want to learn more on our health insurance plans? We're here for you!
Talk to a Manulife Financial Advisor!