BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — The local government unit of Baguio is strengthening breast cancer awareness, early detection, treatment, and patient care in the city.
Baguio City’s government, through Mayor Benjamin Magalong, has signed an agreement with the ICanServe Foundation led by Kara Magsanoc-Alikpala, with the aim of bringing enhanced breast cancer care to the city. This is the “Ating Dibdibin” program or Take Your Breast Care to Heart, which is a comprehensive community-based breast cancer screening program.
The partnership, supported by the Baguio City Council, will help provide services like patient navigation, survivorship programs, and palliative care. This means more support for cancer care by enhancing training of medical and barangay health workers on clinical breast examination and patient navigation.
“This MOU creates a holistic support system for breast cancer patients and survivors, ensuring they receive care at every stage—prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and post-treatment,” ICanServe Foundation said in a statement.
“This partnership provides a framework for improving the quality of life for both cancer patients and survivors in Baguio City through early detection, education, support services, and continuous care.”
By enhancing early detection, patient navigation and continuous care, the program will help reduce morbidity and mortality rates among breast cancer patients, significantly improving the overall health outcomes.
Alikpala emphasized the need for teamwork in fighting breast cancer.
Both patients and survivors will also be empowered through education, information, and community engagement, helping them take an active role in their healthcare decisions.
Baguio is the 7th city in the country to be part of this important program. [JDP/DEG/Trishabel Cabico- PIA CAR- SLU Intern]
