21/10/2025
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
Philippines has the highest incidence rate of breast cancer in Asia.
1 out of 13 Filipino women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.
1 out of 4 who are diagnosed with breast cancer will die within the first 5 years.
Who should be screened?
1. If you are known to have BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation or a first-degree relative with gene mutation
2. History of chest radiation before age of 30.
3. Asymptomatic general population
How do you screen for breast cancer?
1. For High risk women, you can do YEARLY Breast MRI and Mammography, typically starting age 30.
2. For Average risk women, you can do Mammography.
When should you start screening?
- It is recommended to start screening with YEARLY Mammography at 40 years old, as long as women are well-advised on this.
- You can do Clinical Breast Exam as well.
Why is it important to screen?
- Early detection helps in identifying a disease or condition in its initial stages, significantly increasing the chances for successful treatment.
- Regular check-ups, screenings, and prompt attention to symptoms are crucial because diseases may progress to more difficult-to-treat stages if left unnoticed
Have yourself checked.
