BAGUIO CITY (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) continues to promote physical activity as a  means of combatting the big C or cancer.
 
Health Undersecretary Enrique Tayag, in a media forum here, shared that there are observational studies that physical activities reduce by 20 percent the risk of having cancer in the bladder, breast, colon, endometrial, kidney and stomach.

Tayag added that physical activity is also good to persons living with cancer or cancer survivors especially in their rehabilitation.
 
Based on the study, everyone needs 300 hours per week or one-hour moderate exercise every day to combat cancer.

"Huwag po nating ipagsawalang-bahala ang physical activities sapagkat hindi lamang po kanser ang maaaring magkaroon ng benepisyo 'pag tayo ay patuloy sa ating physical activity," Tayag said.
 
Focusing its attention and resources to prevention, the DOH continues to scale up cancer prevention strategies and efforts in health promotion.

DOH Disease Prevention and Control Bureau Director Anthony Cu said aside from active lifestyle and regular physical activities, the DOH promotes diet and exercise particularly the reduction of consumption of red meat, maintaining a well and balanced diet, and well-moderated and varied diet guided by the Pinggang Pinoy.  It also conducts physical immunization to prevent cancer, encourage safe sex, and stop substance use or smoking.

Another effective means of promoting primary care for cancer patients is the Konsulta Tayo campaign.

"Under this campaign, nandun 'yung Tara Love brand specifically for cancer messaging. Through Tara Love, we educate Filipinos on behavior that help reduce the chances of developing some forms of cancer. We also encourage them to seek consultation from primary care providers if they have tell-tale signs of cancer," Cu explained.
 
Through this, they aim to uplift the spirit of cancer patients and their families  in going through this health ordeal. "Nothing is too big if we hold hands and remain steadfast with our cause. With these strategies, we can guarantee that we can close the gap in cancer care," he said.
 
Cu  added that  the implementation of the Cancer Law in accordance with its letter and intent will ensure that the big C or cancer remains on the top of the health agenda. (JDP/DEG-PIA CAR)