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Breast Cancer Awareness Month: A Critical Focus on Early Detection and Education in the Philippines

by Noelle D. Lejano
October 29, 2024

Breast cancer continues to be one of the leading cause of death among Filipinas due to late detection

October is internationally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month—an important time dedicated to raising awareness and emphasizing the importance of early detection and education. In the Philippines, breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women of all ages, affecting thousands of lives each year and claiming its place as the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths.

For many Filipinas, breast cancer is a deeply personal issue. According to the Philippine Cancer Society, breast cancer accounted for more than 27,000 of the 86,484 total cancer diagnoses last year. The gravity of the disease is reflected in the Philippines’ unfortunate ranking: in 2019, it had the highest rate of breast cancer in Asia and ranked ninth globally. With these statistics in mind, Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a rallying call for proactive health management, urging every individual to prioritize education, screenings, and timely medical interventions to improve the prognosis of breast cancer diagnoses.

The Role of Early Detection in Breast Cancer Survival

A significant factor contributing to higher breast cancer-related deaths in the Philippines is late-stage diagnosis. According to the Philippine Cancer Society, 65% of breast cancer cases in the country are diagnosed in advanced stages, which drastically limits treatment options and reduces survival rates. The delay is often due to limited awareness and the lack of regular screening practices, which are crucial in catching the disease in its earliest, most treatable stages.

Early detection can dramatically increase survival rates, allowing for less invasive treatment options and better quality of life post-diagnosis. Regular screenings, including breast self-exams (BSE), clinical breast exams, and mammograms are essential practices for every woman. The Philippine Cancer Society and other cancer advocacy organizations urge women to begin BSE at age 20, receive clinical breast exams from age 30, and undergo yearly mammograms starting at age 40.

The National Breast Cancer Foundation Inc. outlines three essential steps for a thorough BSE:

In the Shower: Using the pads of the fingers, check the entire breast and armpit area for lumps or thickening, applying varying levels of pressure.
In Front of a Mirror: Visually inspect breasts for any changes in shape, contour, or skin texture. Press hands on the hips to flex the chest muscles, observing any dimpling or puckering.
Lying Down: Place a pillow under one shoulder and use the opposite hand to examine the breast with light, medium, and firm pressure, covering the entire breast and armpit area. Gently squeeze the nipple to check for discharge, repeating the steps for the other breast.

Dispelling Common Myths and Misconceptions

One of the main obstacles to early breast cancer detection is the prevalence of myths and misconceptions surrounding the disease. Misinformation can hinder timely screenings, delay diagnosis, and even prevent individuals from seeking medical attention when symptoms arise.

Some common misconceptions include:

“A lump always means cancer.” Not all lumps are cancerous. Many lumps can be benign or naturally occurring changes in breast tissue. If a lump persists, grows, or feels unusual, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider without delay.
“Breast injuries can cause cancer.” There’s no evidence that a breast injury can lead to cancer. While a bruise or injury may cause temporary changes in the breast, cancer does not result from physical trauma.
“Underwire bras increase breast cancer risk.” A significant number of Filipinos, about 42%, mistakenly believe that underwire bras are associated with breast cancer risk. However, extensive research has shown no correlation between wearing bras, including those with underwire, and developing breast cancer.

Recognizing Key Risk Factors

Understanding one’s personal risk factors for breast cancer is another important part of proactive health management. While the exact cause of breast cancer is still unknown, there are several well-established risk factors, including family history, lifestyle habits, and hormonal influences. According to the I Can Serve Foundation, knowing these risk factors can help women make informed decisions about their health, potentially reducing their risk.

Here are some notable risk factors associated with breast cancer:

Family History: A woman’s risk of breast cancer nearly doubles if she has a close relative who has been diagnosed with the disease. For women with a family history of breast cancer, particularly a first-degree relative, regular screenings and consultations with a healthcare professional are essential.
Age: Although breast cancer can occur at any age, it is more commonly diagnosed in women over 50. This factor highlights the importance of regular screening as women grow older.
Lifestyle Choices: Obesity, smoking, and high alcohol consumption have all been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and moderating alcohol intake can help mitigate this risk.
Hormonal Factors: Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after 55), and certain hormone replacement therapies have been associated with a heightened risk of breast cancer. Reproductive factors, like not having children before age 35, may also play a role in one’s overall risk.

Recognizing the Warning Signs of Breast Cancer

Awareness of breast cancer symptoms is essential, as early intervention can be life-saving. Common warning signs to watch for include:

Persistent Lumps or Thickenings in the breast or armpit
Nipple Changes, including inversion, unusual discharge, or pain
Changes in Shape or Size of the breast
Skin Changes around the breast area, such as dimpling, puckering, or redness

If any of these symptoms appear, it is critical to consult a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Breast cancer treatments are most effective when the disease is caught early, underscoring the importance of self-awareness and medical vigilance.

Financial Preparedness and Health Protection

A crucial aspect of comprehensive breast cancer prevention and management is financial preparedness. Dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis can be costly, so financial security can help alleviate the burden of medical expenses. Insurance products specifically designed to provide coverage for breast cancer-related treatments are available and can be a valuable safety net.

Pru Life UK offers PRUHealth Prime – Select Breast Cancer, a product catering specifically to women’s breast cancer healthcare needs. With this plan, Filipinas aged 25 to 45 can access affordable financial protection for as low as Php 150 for a single payment, with coverage lasting up to 12 months. While this plan is not a replacement for preventive practices, it can ease the financial strain and provide a sense of security for those preparing for possible healthcare expenses.

Community Support and Resources

Beyond individual efforts, community and support networks play an important role in breast cancer awareness and management. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity for organizations, healthcare providers, and communities to come together to support, educate, and empower individuals. Various organizations in the Philippines, including I Can Serve Foundation and the Philippine Cancer Society, provide resources, support groups, and educational outreach to promote early detection and reduce stigma surrounding breast cancer.

Support groups and community networks also provide a safe space for individuals facing breast cancer, helping them connect with others going through similar experiences and share valuable information, tips, and emotional support. Many breast cancer survivors credit their community networks for playing an integral role in their journey, offering encouragement and a sense of hope.

A Call to Action: Make October a Month of Self-Care and Awareness

Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a timely reminder of the life-saving power of awareness, early detection, and community support. This October, let’s make a collective commitment to educating ourselves and those around us about the importance of regular screenings, understanding risk factors, and debunking harmful myths. For Filipino women, breast health awareness is not just an individual effort but a shared responsibility, impacting mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends.

By prioritizing breast health, spreading awareness, and supporting one another, we can work together to change the future of breast cancer in the Philippines. This month, let’s make it a point to educate ourselves, conduct those important self-exams, and encourage the women in our lives to do the same.