Senator Cynthia Villar called for greater awareness and early detection of breast cancer as she expressed her concerns on the rising number of cancer cases in the Philippines.
“Health is wealth, ika nga, kaya mahalaga na bigyan natin ng panahon ang ating kalusugan. Dapat lagi tayong naka-alerto sa mga early signs and symptoms ng mga nakakabahalang sakit, kasama na diyan ang breast cancer (as they say, it’s important to pay attention to our health. We should always be alert for early signs and symptoms of any serious illness, including breast cancer),” Villar said during her address at the Breast Cancer Awareness Seminar held in Las Piñas.
Villar further emphasized the critical role of health vigilance. She also stressed about the importance of expanding knowledge and awareness about breast cancer, noting its potential impact on individuals and their loved ones, regardless of gender.
"Let’s remember that information is a powerful weapon and prevention is always better than cure,” said the senator.
In the Philippines, research shows that breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, with estimates suggesting that one (1) in every 13 Filipino women may develop the disease during their lifetime.
Globally, breast cancer accounts for over 2.3 million new cases each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
During the seminar, Villar highlighted that even men can also be affected by breast cancer.
That is why, it is important for the government to provide improved communication of relevant health information and enhanced research capabilities to bolster public health services.
“That is why it is important to expand our knowledge and awareness about this disease because it can affect not only you, but the whole family, friends, neighbors or our loved ones, whether male or female,” she reiterated.