Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Emphasising Early Detection & Proactive Care in the Philippines
This October, we rally under the theme “Rise Up for Breast Cancer” to spotlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In the Philippines, not only is breast cancer the most prevalent cancer among women, but it also leads as the primary cause of cancer-related deaths. With one of the highest incidence rates in Southeast Asia, the call for early detection and proactive health measures has never been more critical.
Understanding Breast Cancer in the Philippines
Did you know that breast cancer makes up nearly 16% of all cancer cases in the country, and nearly 30% of all cancer diagnoses among Filipino women? These staggering figures reveal a pressing reality: many cases are identified too late, significantly impacting survival rates. This issue is exacerbated by limited access to essential screening tools like mammograms, especially in rural areas, coupled with the widespread lack of health insurance, making cancer care less affordable for many.
These statistics are an inspiring call for heightened awareness, enhanced screening programs, and more accessible treatment options to effectively combat breast cancer in the Philippines. Additionally, supporting education on the importance of early detection and the transformative potential of genetic testing could lead to timely interventions and significantly better outcomes for women at risk.
Moreover, awareness around genetic testing, a critical tool in identifying high-risk individuals, remains low, leading to underutilisation of potentially lifesaving information.
At EasyDNA Philippines, we are committed to empowering individuals with vital knowledge about their health risks through our Specialised Inherited Disease Male and Female Cancer Panels.
These tests are designed to uncover genetic predispositions to breast cancer, enabling early intervention strategies. Knowing your genetic risk can guide personalised preventive measures, potentially reducing the likelihood of developing cancer and leading to a healthier future. Our affordable tests are readily available across various locations in the Philippines, and our specialist team is always on hand to support and answer questions.
What can we do in our daily lives to help prevent the late detection of breast cancer?
Daily Self-Check How-To:
- Look for any changes in the contour, swelling, dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples.
- Feel for lumps or thickening in and around the breast area and underarms.
- Report any changes to a healthcare professional without delay.
EasyDNA Philippines support Breast Cancer Awareness by educating, fundraising, researching and innovating to enhance genetic testing methods. Our goal is to improve early detection and provide individuals with the information to take proactive steps in managing their health.
This October, let’s commit to regular self-examinations, clinical check-ups, and consider genetic testing to better understand our health and inherited risks. Together, we can take informed actions to prevent breast cancer and enhance outcomes for everyone.
Let’s rise up for breast cancer awareness—get checked, stay informed, and advocate for your health and that of your loved ones.
