2023-08-13 06:01:00
Nakhon Si Thammarat Province Launches Cervical Cancer Self-Screening Project in Honor of Royal Family
Sunday, August 13, 2023, 11:01 a.m.
Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Thailand – On the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King’s birthday, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province has launched a cervical cancer self-screening project at Central Plaza. The project, which utilizes the HPV DNA Test, was inaugurated by Mr. Apinan Phuekphong, Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, in honor of His Majesty the King, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
Dr. Pongphot Thiranantachai, Director of Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital, highlighted the significance of this project. Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Thai women and the leading cause of death among all gynecological cancers. The majority of patients are of working age, around 40 years old. Despite being preventable through screenings, the number of patients continues to rise.
The HPV DNA method, a new technology for cervical cancer screening, detects the human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA, which is responsible for 99.9% of cervical cancer cases. This method has a sensitivity rate of 90-99% in detecting abnormalities, compared to the traditional pap smear that is only 50-55% accurate. Early diagnosis and treatment of abnormal cervical lesions or pathologies can be made possible through this self-screening process.
To promote women’s health and prevent cervical cancer, the Ministry of Public Health, in collaboration with the National Health Security Office (NHSO), has ensured free cervical cancer screenings every five years for Thai women aged 30-59 nationwide, including in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The NHSO has coordinated with government service units at all levels, including the National Health Service Hospital and all government hospitals, to efficiently implement the HPV DNA Test service since the fiscal year 2022.
Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital has a vital role in this initiative. Not only does it serve as the main hospital for HPV DNA Testing, but it also provides comprehensive care for cervical cancer patients and obstetrics and gynecology cases. The hospital staffs specialists in gynecologic oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, and related fields, ensuring a seamless treatment process for patients.
The success of the past two years in collecting almost 100% of cervical cancer screenings using the HPV DNA Test has encouraged the Senice Plan Committee Cancer Branch of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province to procure new equipment for the self-screening project. This project aims to raise awareness among Thai women and reduce any embarrassment or shyness associated with undergoing the examination.
Therefore, the committee invites women aged 30-59 to apply for cervical cancer screening with the HPV DNA Test from August 12-14, 2023, at Central Plaza Nakhon Si Thammarat. This campaign serves as a significant step toward empowering women to prioritize their health and increase their understanding of cervical cancer.
With the implementation of this self-screening project, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province hopes to significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer and ultimately protect the health and well-being of its female population.]
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