ILIGAN City — Early detection, timely treatment and support from family and the community can help women facing breast cancer, three doctors said during a Breast Cancer Awareness Month event at Robinsons Atrium on Oct. 13.
Dr. Ardel Castaneda-Padayhag, officer-in-charge of the Iligan City Health Office, urged women to seek medical advice and appropriate screening instead of delaying consultations because of fear, financial problems or difficulty accessing healthcare.
She said the city aims to include regular clinical breast examinations in services at barangay health centers and bring healthcare closer to residents across Iligan’s 44 barangays, including remote communities.
Padayhag reported 38 cases or entries in city statistics: 30 involving people aged 30 to 69 and eight involving asymptomatic senior citizens. The report did not specify the period covered or clarify whether the figures represent newly diagnosed cases, screening results or another category.
Breast surgeon Dr. Kim Gonzales Daroy discussed breast cancer risk factors, warning signs and screening. She urged women to consult healthcare professionals if they notice a lump, nipple changes, skin dimpling or other unusual breast changes.
Age and family history can increase the risk of breast cancer, Daroy said, but women without a family history can also develop the disease.
She discussed clinical breast examinations and mammography when recommended by a healthcare professional. She also reminded participants that being familiar with their breasts does not replace professional assessment.
Dr. Ahmad M. Domado, an internal medicine specialist in medical oncology, said advances in treatment offer options for patients diagnosed with breast cancer.
Depending on the cancer and the patient’s condition, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. Specialists work together to develop treatment plans and manage the risk of recurrence, he said.
Domado added that some patients with advanced breast cancer can respond to treatment. He encouraged patients to consult qualified specialists and follow their prescribed care plans.
He also stressed that support must continue beyond medical treatment. A cancer diagnosis can affect patients’ emotional well-being, body image, relationships and finances, he said.
Families can help by listening to patients, assisting with daily needs and helping them access available government or charitable assistance for cancer care.
Follow-up consultations are also important after treatment, Domado said, as survivors may experience lasting side effects and need continued medical monitoring.
The doctors urged women and their families to seek reliable medical information and avoid delaying consultation when they notice unusual symptoms.
Their message underscored the need for accessible healthcare, appropriate treatment and sustained support for patients and survivors.
“Stronger together for a healthier tomorrow” was the event’s message.
