The most common cancer among Filipino women, occurring when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably and may spread to other parts of the body.
See a doctor immediately if you notice any breast changes, especially a new lump, skin changes, nipple discharge, or persistent pain. Regular screening mammograms are recommended for women over 40 or earlier if you have risk factors.
Find a Specialist NowBreast cancer is the most common cancer among Filipino women, affecting approximately 3 out of 100 Filipino women in their lifetime. While these statistics may seem frightening, there is hope: when detected early, breast cancer is highly treatable, with survival rates exceeding 90%. Understanding breast cancer, knowing how to detect it early, and being aware of treatment options can save lives.
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast begin to grow out of control. These cells usually form a tumor that can be felt as a lump or detected on imaging studies. Breast cancer is called "invasive" if it spreads from where it started to surrounding tissues, and it can potentially spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.
Not all breast lumps are cancerous. Many are benign (non-cancerous), such as fibroadenomas or cysts. However, any new lump should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): Non-invasive cancer confined to the milk ducts; highly treatable.
Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): The most common type, starting in the milk ducts and spreading to surrounding tissue.
Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): Starts in the milk-producing glands (lobules) and spreads to nearby tissue.
Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare, aggressive form that makes the breast look swollen and red.
Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors; often more aggressive and challenging to treat.
HER2-Positive Breast Cancer: Has high levels of the HER2 protein; responds to targeted therapies.
Some risk factors cannot be changed:
Modifiable risk factors:
Breast Self-Examination (BSE):
Every woman should know how her breasts normally look and feel. Monthly self-exams help you notice changes early:
The best time for BSE is a few days after your period ends when breasts are least tender.
Clinical Breast Examination (CBE):
A healthcare professional examines your breasts for lumps or abnormalities. Recommended annually for women 40 and older.
Mammography:
An X-ray of the breast that can detect tumors before they can be felt:
Additional Tests When Needed:
Staging determines how far the cancer has spread:
Stage 0: Non-invasive (DCIS)
Stage I: Small tumor confined to the breast
Stage II: Larger tumor or spread to a few nearby lymph nodes
Stage III: Extensive spread to lymph nodes or surrounding tissues
Stage IV: Metastatic cancer that has spread to distant organs
Early-stage breast cancer (0-II) has significantly better outcomes than advanced stages, highlighting the importance of early detection.
Treatment depends on the cancer type, stage, and individual factors:
Surgery:
Radiation Therapy:
Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, often after lumpectomy or sometimes after mastectomy.
Chemotherapy:
Drugs that kill cancer cells throughout the body, given before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after (adjuvant).
Hormone Therapy:
For hormone receptor-positive cancers:
Targeted Therapy:
For HER2-positive cancers:
Immunotherapy:
Helps the immune system fight cancer, used for certain triple-negative breast cancers.
During Treatment:
Reconstruction and Rehabilitation:
Survivorship:
Treatment Centers:
Support Organizations:
Financial Assistance:
While not all breast cancers can be prevented, you can reduce your risk:
A breast cancer diagnosis is life-changing, but it is not a death sentence. Advances in early detection and treatment have dramatically improved survival rates. Many women diagnosed with breast cancer go on to live long, fulfilling lives.
If you haven't had a mammogram recently, schedule one. If you've noticed changes in your breast, don't wait—see a doctor. Early detection truly saves lives.
Mag-alam. Magpasuri. Maging aktibo sa kalusugan. (Be informed. Get screened. Be proactive about your health.)
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