Quezon City intensifies breast cancer awareness drive

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City government has strengthened its awareness campaign for breast cancer as part of the observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.

“It is the city government’s responsibility to ensure that our women constituents receive all the healthcare services they need and the necessary information that will empower them,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said.

Sixty-five health centers in the city’s 142 barangays are giving free lectures on breast cancer. Lectures are conducted by barangay health workers in communities.

According to the local government, women of reproductive age can also receive free lectures teaching them how to do breast self-examinations.

Those who notice lumps or distortions in their breast during self-examination are advised to go to the nearest health center for proper assessment.

Doctors will then refer patients to the Quezon City General Hospital to book a schedule for an ultrasound or mammogram.

The city government is also conducting free visual inspection with acetic acid wash, an early diagnosis method used to detect the lesions that can be an indicator of cervical cancer.

City health department head Esperanza Arias said similar services are also given to women under the city’s family planning program.

“These programs are part of our services for women. This is all year round and free. All they need to do is visit the nearest health center in their area,” she said.

The Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an international campaign to promote regular self-breast examination for early detection and treatment of breast cancer among women.