MANILA, Philippines - A Parañaque City congressman is seeking to create a national cancer institute to centralize the prevention and treatment of the disease.
Rep. Gustavo Tambunting filed House Bill 181 or the proposed National Cancer Institute Act of 2013, which seeks to centralize the planning, programs and activities related to the prevention, screening, detection, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
"The establishment of a network for regional treatment and research center is included to effectively realize the spirit of centralization," Tambunting said.
Citing recent studies, Tambunting noted that cancer claims one death of every two new cases each year, affects 189 in every 100,000 Filipinos, and kills 103 Filipinos a day or four Filipinos every hour.
"Cancer is the third leading cause of death in the country. This trend may continue unless organized and sustained specialized as well as preventive measures against cancer are not initiated at the soonest possible time," Tambunting said.
The measure also proposes to form a National Cancer Advisory Board, composed of the Secretary of the Department of Health, the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology through the Philippines Council for Health Research and Development, and the Director of the National Institutes of Health as ex officio members of the board; and 12 scientists and physicians appointed by the President.
The measure also seeks to establish the National Cancer Research Center in each metropolitan city in the country and one in the National Capital Region for clinical research, training, and demonstration of advanced preventive, diagnostic, and treatment methods relating to cancer.
It will also establish an independent support group as a standing program augmenting the emotional support needed by cancer patients including their families in dealing and coping, through regular inspirational and motivational sessions with cancer survivors and family members.
The NCI, in consultation with the NCAB, shall prepare and submit to the President for transmittal to Congress a report on the activities, progress, and accomplishments under the National Cancer Program during the preceding calendar year and a plan for the program during the next five years.
The measure also establishes cancer centers in each region in the country and will coordinate with the NCI through its executive chief officer.