Take preventive action against breast cancer
Breast Cancer in the Philippines
Did you know that, according to the World health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and one of the main causes of death?
Here in the Philippines and according to the DOH, being cancer the top cause of death, breast cancer account for 30% of cancer causes among women. 3 out of 100 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
There are several risk factor although is no known specific cause of breast cancer, but you can act to prevent it.
Healthy habits could also prevent breast cancer
The World Health Organization recommends simple healthy habits that could eventually have an impact in reducing the incidence of breast cancer, such as:
- Exercise. Have an active lifestyle. Even if it is just a 30 minutes’ walk every day. You’ll feel better and, among many other benefits, it will help you prevent breast cancer.
- Control your weight with a healthy diet reach in vegetables, fruits, whole grain nuts and legumes. Reduce the intake of fats choosing the healthy ones and choose fish over meat.
- Reduce the intake of alcohol
- Limit postmenopausal hormone therapy
A basic preventive routine for early detection of breast cancer: Screen yourself!
Early detection of any signs of breast cancer can make all the difference in prevention and treatment. This can be done easily with simple screening routines.
It is recommended to perform self-palpation / observation of the breasts in a regular way. No specific technique is required. This simple routine increases the chance to discovery any breast minor changes or abnormality such as the appearance of lumps. Whenever you notice any suspicious breast changes, seek medical attention.
Mammography for early detection of breast cancer
A mammography is a screening diagnostic and is a very important tool that doctors use for diagnosis and detection of breast cancer.
When is it time to have a mammography?
Women between 35 and 40 years old should have the first breast medical exam. This will be the basis for assessing breast conditions changes on future exams.
From 40 to 50 years the frequency of taking a mammography should be determined by the doctor. This frequency will depend on the patient’s breast conditions and her personal and family medical history.
After age 50, it is recommended that the patient undergo a mammography annually.
When mammography is not recommended?
Mammography is not recommended If the patient is breastfeeding or pregnant, If the patient underwent a mammography examination that resulted in normal results, within 12 months or If the patient is under 35 years old and is not part of the breast cancer risk group.
Are you up to date with your health and preventive tests?
If you are already on age for breast cancer prevention, you can count on our OB-Gyn services at any of our clinics. Do not hesitate to contact us.