From the data provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), the most common cancer among women is breast cancer. It is a disease where abnormal breast cells grow uncontrollably and form tumors in the breast. Globally, there are 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer, while in the Philippines, breast cancer tops the rank on cancer sites, where 27,163 new cases are recorded each year.
While the cause of breast cancer has yet to be fully identified, there are several modifiable risk factors that patients can counter to help avoid the disease. These risks include one’s lifestyle, like smoking and drinking alcohol. However, there are unmodifiable risk factors, such as genetic mutation, reproductive history, family history of breast and ovarian cancer, and age. The risk of getting breast cancer increases as a woman gets older since invasive breast cancers are usually found in women aged 55 or older. Around 65 percent of cases in the country are diagnosed in the late stages due to a lack of adequate treatment or late screening and detection.
To help prevent the further increase of breast cancer cases in the country through early detection and making breast care for men and women more accessible, The Medical City (TMC) - Augusto P. Sarmiento Cancer Institute’s (APSCI) Breast Center offers patients premium breast care with the help of advanced technology. It is a one-stop-shop for breast health-related concerns functioning as a treatment center for ambulatory care of women at risk for developing breast cancer and those who are already diagnosed with the disease.
Innovative technology and compassionate care as key players in breast care
Battling not only one but two forms of cancer, Atty. Lila Quirino, a legal luminary, triumphed over nasopharyngeal cancer in 2007 and conquered breast cancer in 2009. She stated, "At TMC, you will feel that there is an interest in you as a person, and you're not just a number to deal with. If you don't feel any compassion or care, it affects you. But when you see that it's there, it feels natural. They give you compassion and care. Then you also become more tolerant."
"The medical staff never fail to say, 'Don’t just give up.' And I think that kind of doctor, who encourages you continuously, is what any patient needs,” Quirino added.
The Breast Center boasts cutting-edge technology in breast care, including Digital Breast Tomosynthesis, a revolutionary form of three-dimensional (3D) breast imaging. This advanced technique offers superior clarity and precision compared to traditional digital mammography (2D). Not only does Digital Breast Tomosynthesis provide clearer images of dense breast tissue, but it also reduces the need for unnecessary biopsies or additional tests, thus alleviating emotional and physical distress for patients. Early detection of small breast cancers facilitates prompt treatment and preventive measures. Furthermore, the center harnesses the power of Lunit AI for breast mammogram ultrasound, enhancing the detection of abnormalities and ensuring more accurate diagnoses.
They also operate the first Stereotactic Mammotome Breast Biopsy System in the country, which enables mammography minimally invasive biopsies that preserve breast tissue and can be conducted more safely and quickly. Additionally, APSCI adopts a unique multidisciplinary team approach to cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis, and management. TMC also offers an innovative technique allowing patients to safely receive their radiation treatment at the same time as their surgery for breast cancer, Intra-operative Radiation Therapy, or IORT.
To further reach people needing screenings, APSCI, through the Breast Center, introduced the Hope Mobi-Clinic, a mobile cancer screening program funded by AIA Philippines. As part of its community outreach program, the Hope Mobi-Clinic provides free breast cancer screening to underserved communities of Pasig and San Juan. Under the umbrella of the SCRAP (SCReen And Prevent) Cancer Program, this initiative aims to enhance early detection rates of breast cancer among women.
Visit The Medical City’s official website to learn more about their breast cancer center or send them a message to know how to get checked.