Mariano Marcos
State University

MMSU employees engage in cancer awareness talk

By Jeremy Pascual

Employees of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) participated in a virtual Cancer Awareness Lecture organized by the University Infirmary on May 8, where medical experts addressed misconceptions about cancer and promoted proper health care.

Health and Wellness Services Director Maria Theresa Rasos said the program was organized in response to the growing burden of cancer and continuing lack of accessible healthcare services and limited awareness about the disease.

“Our goal is to bridge gaps by bringing health education and cancer screening services directly to the employees of this institution,” Dr. Rasos said.

She also highlighted Republic Act No. 11215, or the National Integrated Cancer Control Act, which recognizes the importance of cancer prevention, early detection, and equitable access to screening services.

MMSU President Virgilio Julius P. Manzano, Jr., encouraged participants to continue joining talks and activities that promote good health and well-being.

“Knowledge saves lives, and discussions such as this save lives,” he said.

Dr. Manzano then stated that the initiative aligns with the letter D of the university’s SUCCEED agenda, which stands for Dynamic and Holistic Workforce, reflecting the commitment of MMSU to holistic wellness.

With the theme, “Healthy Workforce, Healthy Community: Cancer Awareness and Screening for MMSU Employees,” the talk revolved around cancer awareness and the importance of early detection. 

Serving as the first guest lecturer was Dr. Jay Ian Argel, a gynecologic oncologist from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center (MMMHMC). 

During his lecture, he clarified common misconceptions regarding the human papillomavirus (HPV), an infection transmitted through sexual contact that may lead to cancer. He also discussed Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) screening and HPV vaccination. 

Dr. Argel then stressed that cervical cancer is preventable and that screening methods such as VIA can save lives through early detection and timely intervention.

An open forum followed his talk, where misconceptions regarding VIA screening procedures and HPV vaccination were clarified, which showed the importance of addressing misinformation through open discussions.

During the exchange, Mr. Archie John Blas, an instructor from CTE, also shared that teachers play a role in guiding learners toward accurate and evidence-based health information.

“As teachers, we have a responsibility to help stop the spread of misinformation regarding matters that concern our health,” he commented during the live discussion. Mr. Blas also encouraged the other participants to not easily believe the health myths they read online. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Joanna Rabang, Medical Officer III at MMMHMC, discussed breast and prostate cancer awareness in the workforce. 

Her lecture focused on understanding the prostate gland, common prostate diseases, symptoms to watch out for, available treatments, and the importance of early detection in preventing complications.

Dr. Rabang also highlighted several screening methods, including physical examination, digital rectal examination, urinary flow testing, post-void residual urine testing, and prostate-specific antigen testing. She likewise emphasized the value of breast self-examination in the early detection of breast cancer.

The event wrapped up with an open forum where employees actively participated by asking questions and seeking clarification on the discussed procedures and practices. Additionally, personnel from the University Infirmary encouraged employees to visit the university clinic for any further consultations and health-related inquiries.