Leukemia is the No. 5 cancer site among Filipino males; it is considered a “silent killer.” In 2015, about 4,270 new cases were diagnosed for the year; of which 3,386 deaths were registered. These figures sharply increased In 2022 – more than 7,026 diagnosed cases, with 5,416 deaths, as reported by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
To address the immense problem of blood-related diseases faced by the country, a Senate Bill has been filed to establish a Philippine Blood Disease and Transfusion Center. The proposed Blood Center seeks to serve patients with blood diseases and disorders (including Leukemia, Lymphoma, Hemophilia, and Anemia), with comprehensive health care delivered by a team of experts and specialists.
Introduced by Senator Loren Legarda in March 2024, S.B. No. 2584 proposes to operate a specialty hospital with at least 250-bed capacity, and a blood transfusion center with a state-of-the-art hematology laboratory.
The Blood Center will also establish a Hematopoietic Stem Cell transplant program, and engage in medical and scientific research on the prevention and treatment of blood diseases.
There will be a Program for Indigents needing blood or blood products, as well as for indigent patients with blood diseases, following the guidelines and classifications of patients availing of medical and social services in government hospitals. The Department of Health is tasked to ensure the effective implementation of this Program.
This Cancer Awareness Month, we hope to disseminate vital information and related leukemia-related issues, as well as other blood matters, including diseases, causes, symptoms, prevention, and proper nutrition.
Be informed about leukemia. Scan the LeukemiaQR for timely and relevant information. Visit our EPCALM website to know more about our programs and services:
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