According to the data of the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer cases in the Philippines is among the highest in Asia with 33,079 cases in 2022. Moreover, the Philippine Cancer Society and Department of Health Rizal Cancer Registry found that breast cancer cases increased from 1980 to 2002, with 1,615 patients recorded in 2009 while the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) estimates that 1 in 13 Filipino women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, with a higher risk compared to women in other countries.
Having these data, The Medical City (TMC) Iloilo sees the importance of continuously educating the public about breast cancer on how it can detect and prevented. Thus, in celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, TMC Iloilo launched “Loop in Hope: A Journey with Her”.
A breast cancer awareness advocacy campaign that primarily promotes early detection and prevention of breast cancer, “Loop in Hope” has series of activities that loops in both breast cancer patients and their families, advocates, and the community.
The campaign kicked off on October 25 with an opening program highlighted with a talk about Breast Cancer Symptoms and Early Detection by TMC Iloilo Oncologist Dr. Jay-Ar Palec, and Nutrition and Diet for Cancer Patients by TMC Iloilo Nutrition Management Services Specialist Dr. Marie “Bambi” Tupas. The said event was attended by TMC Iloilo Infusion Clinic patients and their families, and members of Iloilo Bosom Friends Foundation, Inc.
Also part of the program was the unveiling of the Faces of Hope that showcased the stories of Breast Cancer survivors and warriors. To further solidify the commitment of the public to support TMC Iloilo’s advocacy in raising awareness about breast cancer, the participants pledged by stamping their thumbmarks to the Loop in Hope Commitment Canvass.
Moreover, TMC Iloilo brought its Loop in Hope Pop Up Booth to Iloilo Supermart Atrium on October 25-26 wherein women dropped by to learn how to detect early signs of breast cancer through breast self- examination.
Meanwhile, to amplify the stories of hope of breast cancer survivors and warriors, TMC Iloilo also launched the Pink Podcast on its Spotify, Facebook, and Youtube official accounts. The said special podcast episode featured TMC Iloilo Oncologist Dr. Jay-ar Palec, a breast cancer survivor and advocate, and TMC Iloilo breast cancer patient who shared their journey in fighting and surpassing breast cancer.
“Breast cancer is not a death sentence. The key to increasing one’s survival to this illness is through early detection. Thus, it really pays to have a healthcare partner whom you can trust and can guide you on your journey towards surpassing breast cancer,” said TMC Iloilo Oncologist Dr. Jay-ar Palec.
TMC Iloilo Infusion Clinic offers personalized cancer treatment options not only for breast cancer patients but also to other cancer types. Guided by a team of cancer specialists, every patient partner is assured of a treatment option suited for their condition. The hospital has also diagnostic services and bundles for the early detection of breast cancer.
To know more about these offers, contact TMC Iloilo at (033) 339-7340 or mobile numbers 0956-276-0764 or 0961-288-9592. You may also log on to www.themedicalcityiloilo.com or email info@themedicalcityiloilo.com.
