Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is celebrated worldwide.
It focuses on spreading awareness about breast cancer and how it can be prevented and treated.
In the Philippines, many women are affected by it.
According to the National Institute of Health, an estimated 27,000 women, or 26 out of every 100 women, are diagnosed with it each year.
This is alarming, especially since 9,000 of them die from it annually.
It’s not just women who get breast cancer.
Even men have a small chance of developing it.
But, what exactly is breast cancer?
Breast cancer starts in the ducts or milk passages within the breast, but it can also begin in the glands or lobules.
When these cells grow uncontrollably, they form a tumor that can become cancerous and spread to other body parts.
Some causes include a family history of breast cancer or genetics, unhealthy lifestyles, hormones, and vices like alcohol and smoking.
There are steps to prevent it by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating fruits and vegetables, and avoiding excessive weight gain.
It is also important to consult a doctor if any changes in shape, size, or lumps in the breast are noticed.
Early detection of cancer can help treat it right away.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to continue spreading awareness about the disease.
**VALERIE ANN DISMAYA
