Healthway Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH), the country’s first specialized hospital for cancer treatment, has teamed up with global pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca to launch a Lung Center of Excellence and a Lung Nodule Clinic.
The initiative aims to provide a full spectrum of care for lung cancer patients, from early detection and diagnosis to advanced treatment and survivorship, using cutting-edge technology and a multidisciplinary approach.
“The vision of the Lung Center of Excellence is really to be the leading center for screening, detection, diagnosis, and treatment of thoracic malignancies in the Philippines,” said Dr. Gerardo Cornelio, head of the HCCH Lung Center of Excellence.
“And we want to make this bigger, at least in Asia, in the next couple of years,” said Cornelio.
The center will specialize in treating both non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the more aggressive small cell lung cancer (SCLC).
HHCH, in collaboration with AstraZeneca and AI developer Qure.ai, is enhancing early detection through artificial intelligence-powered chest X-rays. The center will also use low-dose CT (LDCT) scans to screen for early signs of lung cancer.
For confirmed or suspected cases, HCCH offers a range of diagnostic tools such as bronchoscopy and various biopsy techniques. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted molecular therapies and immunotherapy.
“Lung cancer incidence is on the rise, and mortality rates are high because the disease is often diagnosed at a late stage,” Cornelio said.
“However, with screening and early detection, lung cancer is increasingly treatable, improving the chances of a cure and lowering the mortality rate. Advances in therapy have also led to a decline in mortality and improved survival rates,” he said.
Dr. Michael Agustin, head of the Lung Nodule Clinic, said the Philippines faces several significant challenges in addressing lung cancer.
“Lung cancer screening is just beginning to be introduced, and PhilHealth has just recently rolled out coverage for low-dose CT,” Agustin said.
“As the country’s first dedicated cancer care hospital, we are committed to addressing the leading cause of death among cancer patients. Our response is to create a sustainable and efficient program that enables the early diagnosis of cancer,” he said.
Patients may be eligible for screening if they are between the ages of 50 and 80, have a smoking history of 20 pack-years or more, and are current or recent smokers. Other risk factors, such as a family history of lung cancer or exposure to substances like asbestos or radon, may also be considered.
