
01/08/2025
July 30, 2025
World Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Day
In an effort to raise awareness and improve early detection of head and neck cancer, 68 barangay health workers (BHWs) of Vintar Ilocos Norte gathered for an educational lecture led by medical specialists, Dr. Ronald Sadian, Dr. Brian Nikoli Borleo and residents Dr. John Clayton Gregorio, Dr. Anthony Balan, Dr. Leoner Rosales from the Otolaryngology Department of Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center. The session aimed to equip BHWs with essential knowledge to identify early signs of the disease and guide patients toward timely medical intervention.
Today we highlight the crucial role of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) in the early detection of head and neck cancers — diseases that often begin with silent symptoms like persistent mouth sores, hoarseness, or a neck lump.
🧠 Risk factors include to***co, alcohol, HPV infection, and poor oral hygiene — all common in the communities BHWs serve.
👩⚕️ As the first point of contact, BHWs can spot early signs, educate residents, and refer high-risk individuals for timely care. Early detection means better outcomes.
Let’s empower our frontline workers to protect lives — one symptom, one household at a time.
Mariano