Pap smear is a safe way to screen for cervical cancer,

 

Recommended for women aged 21 and up the pap smear is a proactive and preventive measure against cervical cancer

“I’m really looking forward to my Pap smear today—said no woman ever” is a sentiment shared by legions of females for a good reason. Lying on the table with their feet in stirrups and their legs spread apart so a gynecologist can pry their vagina walls open with a speculum and scrape cell samples from their cervix can be downright awkward, uncomfortable, and embarrassing."

Filipinas, in fact, are so averse to Pap smears that less than 1% of 54 million Pinays have undergone it in 2023, said the Philippine Institute for Development Studies.

Small wonder then why cervical cancer is the second leading type of cancer among women and girls between the ages of 15 and 44 in the Philippines.

“Consider these sobering statistics: Every two hours, a Filipino woman dies from cervical cancer. Every day, cervical cancer takes the lives of 12 women in the Philippines. Every year, 4,380 women succumb to cervical cancer,” says Renee Vina G. Sicam, MD a gynecologist from top hospital in the Philippines, Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “This wouldn’t be the case if women get a regular Pap smear, a screening test to detect precancerous or cancerous cells in the cervix.”

You don’t have to like it, adds the MakatiMed health specialist. “You just have to appreciate the importance of the test as a proactive and preventive measure against cancer.” Dr. Sicam sets the record straight on this cringy but vital procedure:

Get a Pap smear. “A Pap test is strongly recommended for those who are 30 years old,” Dr. Sicam explains. “If the test comes out with a normal result, which means no abnormal cells were found, screening can be performed every three years.”

Can Pap smear also detect HPV? Dr. Sicam clarifies that there’s a separate HPV DNA testing that checks for the presence of human papillomavirus, whose strains are linked to cervical cancer. “This test is also recommended to those at least 30 years old. If results come out negative, screening can be done every five years.”

It doesn’t require much preparation. “Before you go to your Pap smear appointment, make sure you don’t have your period,” says Dr. Sicam.

Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. Your doctor will either have you change to a hospital gown sans underwear or have you strip from the waist down. “Ask a friend or family member to accompany you if you’re feeling anxious about the test,” advises Dr. Sicam.

It’s fast. A Pap smear takes no more than five minutes tops! After that, you’re free to go about your daily activities. “Depending on where you have your Pap smear done, the results can be released after a few days or up to three weeks,” says Dr. Sicam.

Having performed numerous Pap smears before, the MakatiMed Gynecologist has seen how stressed and vulnerable patients get when a relative stranger checks on them "down there." "Honestly, we don't care what you or 'it' looks like," assures Dr. Sicam. "We just want to make sure that you get properly tested to rule out cervical cancer or take steps to help you overcome the disease."

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email

mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and

Twitter.

MakatiMed clears the air and shares daily tips on maintaining healthy lungs

 

The lungs are our lifeline, as they help us breathe and deliver oxygen to the rest of our body. In fact, we take about 23,000 breaths a day to stay alive. Yet, lung problems are on the rise in the country. According to experts from the Manila Observatory, the toll of air pollution on Filipinos is heavy, with at least 100 out of every 100,000 Filipinos dying annually because of air pollution, all of which takes a direct toll on our lungs.

Gregorio P. Ocampo, MD of the Section of Pulmonary Medicine in the top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) underscores the importance of monitoring lung health given the risks we encounter in our daily lives.

“Vehicular emissions, particularly from cars, jeeps, and tricycles during rush hour, emit significant black soot and other pollutants. Industrial pollution from factories, power plants, and agricultural burning worsens the situation,” Dr. Ocampo points out. “Exposure to air pollutants makes us more vulnerable to respiratory inflammation and infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis. They also increase the risk of developing lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cancer.”

While there are factors we can’t control, MakatiMed emphasizes the steps we can take to reduce the impact of air pollution on our lungs. We can start by improving indoor air quality. “Eliminate indoor smoking, invest in HEPA air purifiers, and regularly dust and change air filters. Regular pet grooming reduces dander while getting air-purifying plants like snake plants can further improve indoor air,” suggests Dr. Ocampo.

For stronger lungs, a healthy diet is also a must. Bid farewell to fried indulgences like crispy pata and salty treats like chicharon. Processed meats? They’re out, too. Their added sodium and unhealthy fats put pressure on our diaphragm, leading to bloating and straining our lungs. Dr. Ocampo adds, “Instead, embrace lung-loving fare—apples, beets, pumpkins, tomatoes, and leafy greens—packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that improve lung function, optimize oxygen intake, and slow down lung decline over time.”

Exercise also makes the lungs healthier. Aerobic activities like running, swimming, or walking improve oxygen delivery in the body. Pilates and yoga, which prioritize proper posture and breathing techniques, can also help us fully utilize lung capacity.

“These workouts include movements that strengthen core muscles, align the spine, and open up the chest, correcting or preventing slouching that’s linked to restrictive breathing,” explains Dr. Ocampo. “Even simple deep breathing exercises that engage the respiratory muscles like the diaphragm can help us master the art of proper breathing for overall wellness.”

MakatiMed also reminds us of the importance of staying up to date on vaccines for the flu and pneumonia for added protection from respiratory diseases. In addition to annual X-ray exams, individuals at high risk of lung illnesses like smokers or those who are exposed to secondhand smoke, drivers, and construction workers are advised to undergo spirometry for early detection and treatment.

“Every breath you take matters. With the growing risk of air pollution, it’s wise to prioritize lung wellness in your daily lives,” says Dr. Ocampo.

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email

mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter. 

Yes, adults can have acne too

Acne is a rite of passage that few teenagers can avoid, much like abrupt growth spurts, the advent of hair and curves in places there never used to be any and other physical changes. Adolescents naturally experience hormonal changes that drive the production of sebum. When sebum, germs, and dead skin cells clog our skin's pores, it causes unattractive pimples. Acne is characterized by pimples on the face and upper body, including whiteheads (clogged pores that close and protrude from the skin), blackheads (clogged pores that remain open but have a darker top surface), pustules, and red bumps.

 Teenagers are plagued by acne, which at its worst lowers their self-esteem and makes it difficult for them to socialize with their friends. They can find solace in the idea that acne can be managed with the right skincare regimens and a balanced diet and way of life.

But what if it persists well through our adolescent and 20s years? According to dermatologist Elsie Reynosa P. Floreza, MD, who also serves as chair of the department of dermatology and chief of the skin and laser hub at Makati Medical Center, the best hospital in the Philippines, adult acne or post-adolescent acne is defined as occurring beyond the age of 25. (MakatiMed). Similar to adolescent acne, adult acne is generally brought on by an overproduction of oil in the skin, the buildup of dead skin cells, and bacteria, which results in

inflammation.