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National Cancer Consciousness Week

Cancer is one of those diseases that has become extremely hard to deal with for people all over the world. It’s very problematic in countries like the Philippines as well, and that’s why the National Cancer Consciousness Week exist. It’s extremely important to generate awareness about cancer and the challenges that it brings, but also ensure that people know how to prepare themselves or what to do. That’s why the National Cancer Consciousness Week has become a huge, important factor to keep in mind.

When is the National Cancer Consciousness Week?

The National Cancer Consciousness Week takes place every third week of January, according to the Proclamation number 1348. The important thing to keep in mind here is the fact that cancer is widely known for being the leading mortality cause in the Philippines according to the World Health Organization. That’s why it has quickly become a national priority for everyone.

That study took place in 2010, and every year there are annual campaigns to help educate people and let them know more about cancer. Knowing what cancer is and what it involves, but also the numerous problems that it can lead to is always a major factor. On top of that, during the entire week, there are lots of events taking place specifically with the idea of helping people learn, study and better understand the intricacies and challenges that cancer brings to the table.

Going to schools and making sure that kids learn more about cancer is a priority. During a time when people don’t always have the best diets and sometimes limited exercise, it’s more challenging than ever to stay away from diseases. That’s particularly true when it comes to dealing with cancer. That’s why it’s imperative to learn how to tackle cancer, deal with it accordingly and figure out the right way to eliminate it from your life.

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Easydna Philippines offer our Specialised Inherited Male & Female Cancer Panels that can help you establish your genetic risk of hereditary cancers specialised male and female panels. We offer a cancer panel test that will look for a total of 79 Genes for the male panel and 74 Genes for the female panel. That includes breast, cervical and prostate cancer. The focus is on learning and understanding, but also knowing how crucial it is to detect cancer as quickly as possible. Without that, it can easily become a major issue to deal with.

Which are the most common types of cancer in the Philippines?

Currently, people in the Philippines are dealing with a variety of cancer types. The most common ones are ovary, stomach, thyroid, leukemia, prostate, cervix, liver, colon, lung and breast cancer. Generally, the highest death occurrences are between people that are over 70 years old. Unfortunately, people way younger than that also can also suffer from cancer, so it’s imperative to focus on protecting ourselves and educating ourselves about cancer.

Depending on the region, the situation varies quite a lot. In fact, in the Central Visayas region, the FHSIS reported 2361 deaths in 2017 alone. That’s why it’s imperative to have a National Cancer Consciousness Week. We need to learn more about cancer and the issues that it brings, and this is the perfect opportunity to achieve such a goal.

Which are the most important symptoms that you should be looking for?

It’s crucial to educate ourselves about cancer, and also learn the symptoms, in particular. Warning signs exist here, and a lot of people present them in the CAUTION US format.

  • Changes in your bowel and bladder habits
  • A sore that doesn’t heal
  • Unusual discharges or bleeding
  • Thickening in the breast or other places, even lumps
  • Indigestion or problems swallowing
  • Obvious changes for moles and warts
  • Nagging hoarseness and coughing
  • Unexplained lack of energy or anemia
  • Sudden weight loss

If you experience one or more of these, it’s imperative to go to a medical centre or it might be time to explore why these things are happening with the help of EasyDNA’s Genetic Predisposition Health Test.

Making sure that you can address these issues before it’s too late is a crucial thing to keep in mind. Doing that will help you eliminate any issues, giving you the best chance at finding or knowing of cancer and how to best address this in your life. That’s why you shouldn’t leave things here before it’s too late. Addressing those problems appropriately can be of exceptional help, and it can deliver extraordinary benefits, reach our to EasyDNA today, and do not wait or the wrong signs to come! Following the guidance of your genetics and your doctor are the best medicine!

How can you prevent cancer?

The problem with cancer is that it comes in many forms. It can be difficult to prevent a specific type of cancer, especially since you might be predisposed to a specific type yourself. That’s why it’s always a very good idea to take a genetic predisposition health test; The Genetic Predisposition Health DNA Test is based on recent scientific research that has established that many medical conditions common in Western society have a genetic basis. By looking at your DNA profile, this test will allow you to establish whether you have a genetic predisposition toward developing any one of 34 diseases and conditions, whether you are at high risk for developing a particular disease, and your estimated lifetime risk compared to the average population. The Genetic Predisposition Health Test will show you what kind of cancer you are predisposed to, and it will make it easier to learn about the potential issues that you might have to be dealing with. Here are some ways you can prevent cancer.

  • Avoid smoking, because that’s a huge reason why a lot of people deal with lung cancer in particular, but also 30% of the other cancers. Tobacco causes up to 5 million deaths every year, so it’s imperative to avoid smoking as much as possible.
  • Always ensure that you take a screening test as regularly. Maybe once a year will be enough to ensure that you don’t have to deal with any cancer. These tumors can form over a longer timespan, so it’s hard to identify them. But the quicker you find them, the higher the chances of survival. That’s why frequent screening tests are important. The same thing is valid when it comes to taking a genetic predisposition health test.
  • Stay away from infections. Many of them will weaken your body, they lead to inflammation and eventually cancer.
  • UV exposure, especially if it’s very often, can lead to a variety of skin issues and even cancer. That’s especially true if you ae using tanning beds, something that’s extremely problematic.
  • You should always be drinking alcohol with moderation. In many situations, it’s ideal to not drink at all if possible. That will help prevent issues and ensure you are only getting the best possible outcome.
  • It’s also crucial to eat healthily if possible. You want to eat plenty of veggies and fruits. In addition, limit processed meats, because those will end up affecting your health in a huge variety of ways.
  • If you’re overweight, you are prone to a vast range of cancers as well. The way you prevent issues is via being physically active. 30 minutes of daily physical activity will help a lot, and they can bring you the benefits you always wanted.
  • Avoid any kind of exposure to industrial toxins. A lot of people might not know this, but exposure to these toxins can sometimes lead to extreme health issues, especially in the long term.
  • Sleep properly, always ensure that you have at least 7 hours of sleep every single night. While cancer isn’t specifically linked to a lack of sleep, insomnia and other problems can weaken your body and that makes it prone to diseases.
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Conclusion

We encourage you to learn more about cancer during the National Cancer Consciousness Week. It’s more important than ever to learn how to deal with cancer and identify the challenges that it brings to our society. Once we know that, it’s much easier to stay healthy and ensure that any type of cancer is identified and removed quickly. Adequate knowledge and understanding of cancer can lead to cancer prevention or give you the best chance to change your lifestyle before!

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Keeping It All in The Family – Finding Out Your Genetic Ties

Families are fabulous, whether you have a big extended tribe or you come from a smaller, tight-knit group, we all have unique family experiences that make us who we are today. Most of us know who our families are, but have you ever wondered about your genetic heritage, and how far the branches of your family tree extend?

Amazingly, the biggest family tree in the world links more than 27 million people, an authentic story of shared humanity. From this, it is estimated that more than 26 million people worldwide have undertaken a genetic ancestry test, making us highly curious of our ancestry.

EasyDNA Philippines is celebrating families for the month of December, with PH700 discount off Relationship tests if purchased before the end of the month. The tests that are discounted for December are the Home Paternity, Legal Paternity, Maternity, Siblings, Y Chromosome, Grandparentage, Aunt and Uncle and the Twins DNA test.

Choosing the right test for your needs is dependent on your individual situation. For example, those who are not sure whether they need a paternity test or a relationship test should make their decision based on the outcome they require. Choosing between a relationship DNA test and a paternity test involves considering various factors, each serving a specific purpose in unravelling biological connections. While both tests delve into genetic information, a relationship DNA test extends beyond paternity to explore broader familial ties.

A relationship DNA test is a comprehensive examination of genetic relationships within a family. Unlike a paternity test, which specifically identifies the biological father of a child, a relationship DNA test can uncover relationships such as siblingship, grandparentage, or uncle and aunt connections. The broader scope of this test makes it a valuable tool for those seeking a more extensive understanding of their family tree. In situations where the paternity of a child is known, but additional familial relationships are in question, a relationship DNA test offers a more inclusive solution. For instance, if siblings want to confirm their biological connection or if grandparents seek verification of their relationship with a grandchild, this test provides a comprehensive analysis.

On a more personal level, a relationship DNA test can be emotionally beneficial, allowing individuals to explore and strengthen their familial bonds by confirming relationships that extend beyond parentage. The results can offer a more holistic understanding of family dynamics and heritage, forging a sense of unity and shared ancestry with others.

December is usually a time for families to get together and celebrate, so what better time to find more out about the people you love the most. Ultimately, there is no wrong choice with DNA tests, choose the right one for you, and you’ll be on the right track to discovering your true genetic roots.

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Child’s Play: National Children’s Month 2023

What’s one thing that every human on earth has in common? If you said that we were all once children, then you’d be right! Children are an important part of the world’s population, and we need to ensure that they are looked after, nurtured, and loved, because let’s face it, they will probably have to look after us when we’re old!

National Children’s Month in the Philippines is an annual observance held throughout the month of November. It aims to promote and protect the rights of children, raise awareness about children’s issues, and celebrate their significance in society. This month-long event was established in 1989 to emphasize the importance of child welfare and to highlight the need for comprehensive programs and policies that support the well-being of Filipino children. In 1993, the Filipino government proclamation recognised the significance of children as an essential part of the nation’s development.

National Children’s Month is celebrated with a specific theme that focuses on particular aspects of child welfare, such as education, health, protection, and participation. Themes can change annually to address evolving issues and challenges facing Filipino children. In 2023, the theme is…….

So, what is there to do and learn during National Children’s Month? Throughout November, various government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), schools, and communities organise activities and events to promote children’s rights and well-being. These activities may include seminars, workshops, health clinics, educational campaigns, and cultural events. The month also plays a role in raising awareness about child-related issues, such as child labor, child abuse, and child trafficking. Advocacy campaigns are often launched to encourage individuals, communities, and policymakers to take action to protect and promote children’s rights. Importantly, children themselves are encouraged to participate in activities and events during the month. This inclusion helps empower them and allows their voices to be heard on matters that affect their lives.

There are a number of things that parents can do to ensure their children are happy and healthy. For those who want for focus on their children’s health from a genetic point of view, why not start early with a DNA test, from EasyDNA Philippines? Offering a comprehensive suite of tests, there is something for everyone, from pregnancy to newborn, to child, and beyond.

For those wanting to get a head start on their children’s genetics before they’re even born, the Prenatal Paternity Test will reveal the paternity of an unborn baby. All that is required to accurately confirm or exclude paternity is a sample of maternal blood and only a rubbing of the mouth to get a sample from the alleged father.

Your newborn’s health can be a cause of worry, and sometimes feel overwhelming. Are they ok? Will they be likely to develop any serious conditions? Have I passed something on to them? The Newborn Genetic Test with NOVA determines a baby’s risk for 50 inherited disorders, as well as providing personalised genetic information on how they might metabolise 20 common drugs. Each year over 7.9 Million babies are born with birth defects, most of which appear perfectly healthy at birth and come from families with no history of the disorder. This test provides peace of mind for parents wanting to know more about their child’s genetic predisposition to illnesses.

Finally, the Children’s DNA Discovery is a gateway to learning how your child’s genes influence who they are and what they can be. Are they risk takers? What are their learning patterns? Do they have athletic tendencies? All will be revealed with this test!

Overall, we should aim to do the very best by our precious children. Love them, raise them right, send them out into the world to be productive members of society. Celebrate your unique children during National Children’s Month and remember to provide them with as many opportunities as you can that lead to healthy, happy, and fulfilling lives.

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Health for One and All: National Health Education Week 2023

Are you feeling like your health and wellness is never quite where it should be, and that you could be looking after yourself better than you are? We all try to maintain our health and look after ourselves, but sometimes our busy lives take over and we forget the basics. Maybe it’s time for a refresh!

The second week in October is National Health Education Week in the Philippines, which aims to raise awareness of the importance of leading a healthy, balanced life, which in turn helps to create a health-conscious nation of people who care about their own, and other’s wellbeing. The success of a nation is largely dependant on the health of its people.

Adopting healthy habits is essential for people of all nationalities, including Filipinos. There are seven healthy habits that can benefit individuals in the Philippines or anywhere else:

  • Move more, eat right – Moving more and eating right are essential for a healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity boosts energy, mood, and overall well-being. A balanced diet reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Together, they promote a longer, healthier life.
  • Care for yourself, care for others – Caring for yourself and others is the foundation of a compassionate and harmonious society. Prioritizing self-care, like maintaining physical and mental health, enables you to be a better support system for loved ones.
  • Be clean, live sustainably – Living sustainably is vital for our planet’s future. It means reducing waste, conserving resources, and making eco-friendly choices. Sustainable living involves recycling, using renewable energy, reducing water consumption, and supporting environmentally friendly products and practices.
  • Do no harm, put safety first – Making informed decisions to prevent accidents, protect your health, and ensure well-being in various aspects of life.
  • Get vaccinated – Getting vaccinated is a crucial step to protect yourself and others from infectious diseases.
  • Don’t smoke, avoid alcohol, say No to drugs – Smoking, drinking, and drug abuse you’re your health. These habits increase risks of diseases, addiction, and accidents. Avoiding them promotes well-being, better quality of life, and healthier communities.
  • Practice safe sex – Sexual health starts with safe sex. It involves using protection like condoms, regular testing for STDs, and open communication to prevent infections and unintended pregnancies while fostering responsible relationships.

For those wanting to be proactive, and get a more scientific insight to their current health status and learn about their propensity for developing serious health problems, genetic testing is the answer. EasyDNA Philippines has a range of tests that can give you the answers to your health-related questions, from a genetic perspective. The health and wellbeing tests include:

Celiac Disease Genetic Testing – Around 83% of celiac diseases suffers go undiagnosed. Could you be one of them?

Lactose Intolerance Test – A lactose intolerance test will establish whether you carry certain a gene mutation which makes you unable to produce the enzyme which helps digest lactose.

Genetic Predisposition Test – An innovative test which allows you to discover whether you are genetically predisposed towards developing a number of diseases and medical conditions.

DNA Diet and Health Weight Test – The DNA Diet and Health Weight Test can help you understand why you can’t keep off those extra pounds, providing you the personalised nutrition and fitness recommendations you need to get your weight to budge – and keep it off.

Intolerance Sensitivity Test – Intolerance testing uses a sample of your hair to determine your sensitivity to up to 800 food and 325 non-food items. Testing includes a nutrition, metal toxicity, gut biome and hormonal analysis!

So you really have no excuse! Simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, combined with a DNA test that will answer your specific health related questions is a great start in your journey to know your health. Educating yourself about your health is the first step towards a health and happy life!

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Time To Take Care of Your Thyroid!

National Thyroid Cancer Awareness Week is a significant annual event observed in the Philippines during the last week in September. This campaign aims to raise awareness about thyroid cancer, thyroid health, educate the public about thyroid cancers and disorders, and promote early detection and treatment.

So what exactly is a thyroid? The thyroid gland, though small in size, plays a crucial role in maintaining our overall health, making it essential for every Filipino to understand its significance. Located in the neck, the thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, energy production, and body temperature. Unfortunately, thyroid disorders are widespread around the world, affecting millions of individuals, with women being more susceptible than men. In the Philippines, the incidence of thyroid disorders has been steadily increasing. Sadly, thyroid cancer is the most common cancer of the endocrine system in the Philippines, making Thyroid Cancer Awareness Week more important than ever.

One of the primary objectives of this awareness week is to educate the public about thyroid cancer, and to recognise the signs early and seek medical help. Worryingly, there are often no obvious signs of thyroid cancer, however you may have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • a lump in the neck or throat that may get bigger over time
  • difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • swollen lymph glands in the neck
  • a hoarse voice

Screening and early detection are vital components of thyroid awareness. Thyroid tests, which measure levels of thyroid hormones in the blood, can help diagnose thyroid disorders. Routine screenings can be especially crucial for pregnant women, as thyroid disorders can affect both the mother and the developing baby.

Furthermore, Thyroid Cancer Awareness Week provides a platform for healthcare professionals and patient support groups to share information and resources with the public. Seminars, webinars, and workshops are organised to help individuals better understand thyroid health and cancer management. These events empower patients to take control of their health and make informed decisions about their treatment options.

Thyroid cancer is caused by inherited genetic defects, so genetic testing for your predisposition to this deadly disease might be an avenue that you’d like to explore. EasyDNA Philippines offers the Specialised Inherited Male & Female Cancer Panels test, which establishes your genetic risk of hereditary cancers. This cancer panel test looks for a total of 79 Genes for the male panel and 74 Genes for the female panel. Genetic testing is the only way to confirm whether you carry certain hereditary gene mutations that may be responsible for certain cancers. This screening test can be used to identify gene mutations responsible for hereditary cancers within the family and to determine which family members may be at risk.

In addition to raising awareness, Thyroid Cancer Awareness Week encourages Filipinos to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management can all contribute to maintaining optimal thyroid function. By making these simple lifestyle changes, individuals can reduce their risk of developing thyroid disorders and improve their overall well-being.

Your thyroid health is important! Get on board this September, and take the opportunity to learn more about this little gland and take positive, proactive steps toward better thyroid health.

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Celebrating Family Planning Month: Empowering Choices and Healthier Futures.

In the Philippines, the month of August is dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the importance of family planning. Family Planning Month provides a crucial platform for engaging communities and fostering conversations about reproductive health, gender equality, and responsible parenthood. This annual observance aims to empower people with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about family planning, resulting in healthier families and a brighter future for the nation.

The Philippines is a country with significant challenges surrounding reproductive health and family planning. Family Planning Month aims to educate the 68 million adults about the services available to ensure that individuals can plan their families according to their desires and needs. One of the key pillars of Family Planning Month is the sharing of information about various contraceptive methods. Importantly, the campaign also promotes the inclusion of men in family planning discussions, recognising their vital role in decision-making and fostering a more supportive and equitable environment.

Filipino healthcare providers and organisations play a central role during this month by conducting awareness programs, educational workshops, and distributing informational materials. By addressing myths and misconceptions surrounding family planning, these initiatives aim to break down barriers and reduce stigma, enabling more individuals to seek reproductive healthcare without hesitation.

The month also focuses on highlighting the significance of maternal and child health. Access to family planning services not only empowers women with the ability to plan pregnancies but also contributes to reducing maternal mortality rates (currently 189 per 100,000 live births) and improving child health outcomes. It ensures that pregnancies occur at the right time and spacing, reducing the risk of complications and improving the overall health of mothers and children.

Despite the progress made in the Philippines in recent years, challenges do persist, particularly in reaching marginalised and remote communities with limited access to healthcare services. Family Planning Month seeks to bridge these gaps by advocating for policy changes and increased funding to strengthen reproductive health services and make them available to all, regardless of socioeconomic status.

From a genetic perspective, family planning also includes educating yourself about the different things that can occur during pregnancy, which can impact on your family. So, what are some things that everyday people can do to ensure that their journey into parenthood is as smooth as possible? EasyDNA Philippines has a range of prenatal tests that serve to provide peace of mind to expectant parents. These include:

Prenatal Peace – Starting from 8 weeks pregnant and using only a maternal blood sample, this test detects a number of genetic conditions, including Down syndrome, Edward’s syndrome, and can provide more accurate results compared to traditional screening methods.

Newborn Genetic Test with NOVA – Complete and comprehensive, NOVA is a newborn screening test that determines a baby’s risk for 50 inherited disorders, as well as providing personalised genetic information on the metabolism of 20 drugs.

Additionally, EasyDNA Philippines offers a suite of paternity tests that can help to solve any paternity doubts you might be having about the true, biological father of an unborn baby or child. These tests will provide peace of mind for people as well as determining the correct parentage.

 

So, for existing families and those planning on starting one, Family Planning Month serves as a vital platform to promote the significance of family planning, reproductive health, and gender equality. By fostering awareness, providing information, and engaging communities, this annual campaign empowers individuals to make informed choices about family planning, leading to healthier families and a more prosperous nation. Every Filipino has the right to plan their families and secure a brighter future for themselves and their children!

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Lifestyle Changes Can Change Your Life – National Diabetes Week 2023

We have all heard of diabetes, and we probably know someone who has either Type 1 or Type 2, and their individual struggles, but what do you really know about it? Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by high blood sugar levels. It is a sizable public health concern worldwide, and the Philippines is no exception. An increasingly Western lifestyle and diet has led to a marked increase in the incidence of diabetes amongst the Filipino population.

According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), it was estimated that around 4.8 million adults aged 20-79 were living with diabetes in the Philippines in 2019. This number is projected to increase to 6.8 million by 2045. Most diabetes cases in the Philippines are type 2 diabetes, which accounts for more than 90% of all diabetes cases, however there is a significant concern about the number of cases of diabetes that go undiagnosed. In 2019, it was estimated that about 2.5 million adults in the Philippines were living with undiagnosed diabetes.

We all know that there are several risk factors that contribute to the onset of diabetes, including, sedentary lifestyles, obesity, unhealthy diets, family history of diabetes, and increasing urbanisation. Diabetes can also lead to a range of related complications, including cardiovascular diseases, kidney disease, nerve damage, eye damage, and more seriously, lower limb amputations.

For those with a family history of diabetes, EasyDNA Philippines offers the Genetic Predisposition Health Test. Simply, this test is designed to analyse an individual’s DNA to identify potential genetic variants or markers that could be associated with an increased risk of developing certain diseases or conditions, including diabetes, and 34 others. This test is based on advancements in genetic research and the identification of specific genetic variations linked to various health outcomes. Your results can provide insights into your unique genetic makeup and help you make more informed decisions about your health.

National Diabetes Week is an awareness campaign that aims to educate the public about diabetes, its risk factors, prevention, management, and available resources. Officially, National Diabetes Week in the Philippines runs from July 9-15, but it is a three-week observance to highlight diabetes, its causes, management, and research. During National Diabetes Week, various organisations, including government agencies, healthcare providers, diabetes associations, and advocacy groups, collaborate to raise awareness about diabetes and its impact on individuals, families, and communities, and often involves initiatives such as:

Health screenings: Free or discounted diabetes screenings are conducted to detect undiagnosed cases and raise awareness about the importance of early detection.

Educational programs: Seminars, workshops, and community events are organised to provide information about diabetes prevention, management, nutrition, exercise, and self-care practices.

Awareness campaigns: Public service announcements, advertisements, social media campaigns, and other forms of media are used to reach a wider audience and disseminate information about diabetes.

Support groups: Existing diabetes support groups may hold special meetings or events to provide support, share experiences, and offer guidance to individuals and families affected by diabetes.

So, if you are concerned that your lifestyle might play a hand in contributing to diabetes, then it is time to make some changes. Remember, a small change could change your life!

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Family History of Breast Cancer? Check Your Bumps for Lumps

Do you know someone who has had, or currently has breast cancer? It would be surprising if you answered ‘No’ to this question, as it touches the lives of so many. Breast cancer is a significant health concern in the Philippines, with a cancer expert recently claiming that the disease is bordering on pandemic proportions.

The most common in the world, breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among Filipino women. According to the Philippine Cancer Society, breast cancer comprises 16% of all newly diagnosed cancers in the Philippines. 2020 data from the World Health Organisation said there were 86,484 cases of cancer in the Philippines, of which, 27,163 were breast cancers. Sadly, breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Filipino women, and accounts for approximately 10% of cancer-related deaths in the country. Most commonly occurring in women over the age of 40, breast cancer doesn’t discriminate, and can also affect younger people. Dr. Perry Wilson, associate professor of medicine and Yale research director, writes about this in his article in Medscape. He discusses the benefit of genetic testing in younger patients, and how far genetic testing has advanced, making it a viable and affordable option for all.

There are a number of risk factors which contribute to the development of breast cancer in the Philippines, including family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), hormonal factors, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, alcohol consumption, and certain reproductive factors.

Regarding genetic mutations, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are two genes that play a crucial role in the development of breast and ovarian cancer. Mutations in these genes are associated with a significantly increased risk of developing these types of cancer.

So, what exactly are these genes? The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are involved in DNA repair and maintaining the stability of the cell’s genetic material. They help prevent uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of tumours. BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations can be inherited from either parent. If an individual inherits a mutation in one of these genes, they have an increased risk of developing breast, ovarian, and certain other types of cancer during their lifetime. Sadly, BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are also linked to an increased risk of other types of cancer, including pancreatic, prostate, and male breast cancer, however it’s important to note that while BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are strongly associated with an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer, not all individuals with these mutations will develop cancer.

For those wanting to further explore and confirm whether they carry certain hereditary gene mutations that may be responsible for certain cancers, the Specialised Inherited Male & Female Cancer Panel is available from EasyDNA Philippines. This clinical test looks for a total of 79 Genes for the male panel and 74 Genes for the female panel. The Inherited Cancer Panel can serve as a powerful tool for early intervention and can assist in preparing you to take the steps necessary to reduce your changes of developing certain cancers, including breast cancer. This test can identify mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes and can help determine the risk of developing cancer and inform decisions about screening, prevention, and treatment options.

For Filipinos concerned about the likelihood of developing cancer of any type, EasyDNA is a great starting point for genetic screening tests. Let’s band together to stop being cancer statistics!

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The Motherload – Navigating Safe Motherhood

Mothering is a hard gig! It brings equal challenges and rewards to all mums. In the Philippines, women start their families from a young age, with the average age being around 24 years for a first child. More than one million babies are born in the Philippines each year, making parenting a highly important role in society.

Safe Motherhood Week in the Philippines is an annual event that is observed in the second week in May. The event aims to promote safe motherhood practices and raise awareness about maternal and newborn health issues in the country. The theme for Safe Motherhood Week varies each year, but it always focuses on improving maternal health and reducing maternal mortality.

In recent years, the Philippines has been working to improve maternal and newborn health, with the government implementing various programs and initiatives to address the issue. Safe Motherhood Week serves as a platform for various stakeholders to come together and share information, experiences, and best practices on maternal and newborn health.

During Safe Motherhood Week, various activities are organized, including health education sessions, seminars, workshops, and community outreach programs. These activities are aimed at educating and empowering women and their families on the importance of safe motherhood practices and the steps they can take to ensure a healthy pregnancy and childbirth.

Currently, all Philippines-born babies are screened for five common conditions including congenital hypothyroidism, cystic fibrosis, amino acid disorders including phenylketonuria, organic acidemias and fatty acid oxidation defects.

For those who want to have the best possible start into motherhood, there are a range of things you can do to ensure that your baby is healthy, before you even meet them! Mothers wanting peace of mind about their baby can invest in a number of prenatal tests from EasyDNA Philippines. The prenatal suite includes:

Prenatal Peace – a non-invasive test, requiring no risky amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling. The Prenatal Peace test screens for a number of genetic conditions and provides accurate results in a timely manner. This test is 100% safe, and screens for 18 genetic conditions, including Down syndrome, Turner’s syndrome and Trisomy 9. Starting at just 10 weeks of pregnancy and using only a maternal blood sample, this test can provide more accurate results compared to traditional screening methods. A standard blood draw is all that is required to undertake the DNA test; however it should be noted that this does not replace a diagnostic test.

Newborn Genetic Test – This NOVA test is suitable for newborns and children up to 5 years of age. NOVA screens for 50 inherited disorders, which have a combined prevalence rate of 1 in every 400 births. This unique test aims to achieve early detection, referral and treatment of all babies identified as high risk of these disorders.

Overall, Safe Motherhood Week in the Philippines is an important event that helps raise awareness and promote safe motherhood practices, which can ultimately lead to better maternal and newborn health outcomes in the country. Motherhood is a challenge but also an ultimate privilege – enjoy every moment!

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Time to Celebrate – 75 Years of World Health Day

Do you ever look at the images on your social media pages and think, “Wow, how do they look so good?” or “I wish I were as healthy as that person.”? Life is busy. We often have all the best intentions of getting fit, losing weight, moving more and eating healthier, but sometimes, our busy schedules get in the way, and before you know it, the day is over and you’re exhausted and ready for bed. Forget New Year’s resolutions, what about turning over a new leaf in April? If your health journey has taken a turn for the worse, or if you’re in a bit of a slump, now is the perfect time to shake it up and do a master reset on your overall health.

World Health Day is on April 7, and 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of this momentous day. In 1948, countries of the world came together and founded the World Health Organisation (WHO) to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable, with the aim of providing improvements in health to all, regardless of their location, race or financial status. This year’s theme is Health for All, with some of the key messages including:

  • A vison that all people have good health for a fulfilling life in a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world.
  • The right to health is a basic human right. Everyone must have access to the health services they need when and where they need them without financial hardship.
  • Almost two billion people face catastrophic or impoverishing health spending, with significant inequalities affecting those in the most vulnerable settings.
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These are all important things to consider, when thinking about our own, and the health of others. So, what can you do on a personal level if you want to improve your health? Surprisingly, the answer could start with your own DNA.

The DNA Diet & Healthy Weight Test from EasyDNA Philippines can help you to take the first steps in moving towards a healthier, and as a result, happier life. This test provides personalised weight management, fitness and nutrition advice based on your genetic makeup. Your results will closely analyse your food intake, helping you understand the interaction between what you eat and your genetic makeup as well as provide a recommended diet plan that can help you reach your goals. Your 70-page results report will have you on the right track to feeling better about what’s on the inside, and the outside!

Your results will include useful information about:

  • Your weight loss ability: is your body a weight loss wonder, or are you more geared towards slow and steady weight loss? Your genes hold the answers.
  • Carbs, proteins and fats: What are the right recommendations of fats, carbs and proteins for your genetic makeup but also for your age, height and gender?
  • Nutrients & vitamins: What nutrients and vitamins do you need? Vitamins and micronutrients support functions in our body which affect your weight. All will be revealed in your results.
  • Cardio response/strength training/exercise regimes: How intense should your workouts be? How often should you be working out?

EasyDNA Philippines also has a wealth of other health and wellness tests, including:

Celiac Disease Genetic Testing – Discover if you have the genes associated with Celiac Disease.

Lactose Intolerance Test – Feeling sick after dairy foods? You could be lactose intolerant.

Children’s DNA Discovery – Find our how genetics affects your child’s behaviour, personality, and physical traits.

Intolerance Sensitivity Test – Rashes? Skin Problems? Feeling strangely Ill? You could have an intolerance.

So, it’s obvious that there’s a health test to help make everyone a better version of their current self. Take control of your health this World Health Day, and become a champion of your own health.

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