Women’s health has long been a central focus for Zonta Club of Greater Rizal II (ZCGR2). For years, the club’s flagship project has been its Cancer Clearance Test for Women, a program designed to raise awareness and provide preventive health screenings for diseases that disproportionately affect women. In particular, uterine and ovarian cancer are silent threats that often go undetected until they have reached advanced, life-threatening stages.
The Prevalence and Danger of Uterine and Ovarian Cancer
Worldwide, uterine and ovarian cancers are among the deadliest forms of cancer affecting women. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), uterine cancer ranks as the sixth most common cancer among women globally, with ovarian cancer following closely behind as the eighth. In the Philippines, these cancers represent a significant health concern due to low awareness and limited access to healthcare, especially in underserved areas.
Uterine cancer, which affects the lining of the uterus, and ovarian cancer, which starts in the ovaries, can both be fatal if not detected early. While uterine cancer is often associated with abnormal bleeding, ovarian cancer is notoriously difficult to diagnose early due to its subtle symptoms. As a result, ovarian cancer is often discovered only when it has already spread, making it far more difficult to treat.
The statistics are sobering:
- Uterine cancer claims tens of thousands of lives worldwide each year, with approximately 417,000 new cases diagnosed annually.
- Ovarian cancer, due to its later-stage diagnosis, is particularly deadly, causing around 207,000 deaths globally each year.
The Importance of Preventive Health Screenings
Given the prevalence and lethality of these cancers, early detection is crucial. This is where ZCGR2’s Cancer Clearance Test project steps in. From the very start, the Zonta Club has focused on educating women and young girls about their health, offering free or low-cost cancer screenings that can help save lives by catching the disease in its earliest stages.
The Cancer Clearance Test follows a comprehensive and community-centered approach that ensures women receive essential education and screening. Here’s what a typical event looks like:
Step 1: Women’s Health Education
The first part of the event is an informative session aimed at empowering women with knowledge about their own bodies. During this session, women learn about:
- Women’s health basics, including how female physiology differs from male anatomy.
- Understanding their fertile period and how to recognize the signs of ovulation.
- The roles of the two main female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, and how they regulate the menstrual cycle.
- The benefits and risks of various artificial birth control methods, including pills, injectables, condoms, and IUDs.
- Natural family planning methods and even how to increase the likelihood of conceiving a male or female child—always a popular topic!
Step 2: Bilateral Breast Examination
Next, trained healthcare professionals conduct a bilateral breast examination to detect any abnormal masses or signs of breast cancer. This crucial screening can help identify early signs of breast cancer, another common and potentially fatal disease.
Step 3: Speculum Examination and Pap Smear
The third step involves a speculum examination, where the cervix is visualized, and a sample is taken for a Pap smear. This simple yet essential test can detect abnormal cell changes that may indicate cervical cancer. The examination also includes an internal check to assess for any potential uterine or ovarian masses, which could signal the presence of cancer in these areas.
Step 4: Women’s Hygiene and Folklore Counseling
Finally, after the physical examinations, women receive counseling on proper hygiene, particularly on how to clean themselves effectively to prevent infections. In some cases, discussions also cover traditional Filipino folklore, such as the belief that women should avoid bathing during menstruation. This conversation helps dispel myths and replace them with science-backed health advice.
The Bigger Picture: Preventing Uterine and Ovarian Cancer
ZCGR2’s Cancer Clearance Test is about more than just screening—it’s about building a culture of health awareness. By educating women about their bodies and providing access to life-saving tests, Zonta Club is empowering them to take control of their health and well-being.
Why is this important?
For many women in the Philippines, particularly those in rural or underserved communities, routine cancer screenings are often out of reach. Lack of awareness, cultural taboos, and financial limitations can prevent women from seeking the care they need. Through projects like this, Zonta aims to bridge these gaps by bringing vital health services directly to those who need them most.
The Impact of Early Detection
Early detection can make a world of difference. When cancers like uterine and ovarian cancer are caught in their early stages, the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher. Zonta Club’s project not only helps in early identification but also emphasizes the importance of regular health check-ups, family planning education, and women’s hygiene—vital components in overall women’s health.
Join Us in Empowering Women’s Health
ZCGR2 is committed to continuing its efforts to improve women’s health across the Philippines. Whether through cancer screenings, educational campaigns, or collaborative projects, we believe that informed women are empowered women. **By raising awareness and providing access to preventive healthcare, we can help reduce the devastating impact of diseases like uterine and ovarian cancer.**
Together, we can create a healthier, stronger future for women.