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Breast cancer still a ‘significant concern’ in Zamboanga

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ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – An official of the Department of Health has revealed that breast cancer continues to be a significant health concern affecting women across the region. 

Despite advancements in medical technology and increased awareness campaigns, the prevalence of breast cancer remains a pressing issue that requires continued attention and intervention.

As of 2023, 5,148 cases reported mortality with non-communicable disease in Region IX. 113 of which are women with breast cancer aged 40 and above.

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DOH medical officer, Dr. Cheryl Sarmiento, sheds light on the pressing health issues confronting women today. From maternal mortality to the rise in adolescent pregnancy, violence against women, and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, the spectrum of challenges is vast and complex.

National Women’s Month serves as both a positive affirmation and a call to action. Sarmiento emphasizes the need for women to actively engage in advocacy efforts while also urging agencies and institutions at the national and local levels to ensure equal rights and opportunities for women.

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“Women themselves should participate in the advocacy, and at the same time, agencies and institutions should take part at the national or local level to ensure that equal rights and opportunities are provided and met,” she added.

Further, the DOH promotes various measures to safeguard women’s health, including the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent cervical cancer, regular self-breast examinations, and early consultations with medical providers. These initiatives align with WHO’s Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer and the Global Breast Cancer Initiative, aimed at reducing global breast cancer mortality.

“We encourage women and adolescents to consult with healthcare providers in their health centers, may it be related to their pregnancy or other gynecological conditions,” Dr. Sarmiento emphasized. (KSA/AAG/RVC/EDT/MLE/DBE-GIP/PIA9-Zamboanga City)

About the Author

Myra Cel Espinosa

Information Officer III

Region 9

Myra Espinosa is an Information Officer of the Philippine Information Agency Region IX.  She writes news and feature stories for the agency's website and social media platforms. She is currently the program host of Kapihan na Zamboanga Public Briefing, as well as a news contributor for PTV News. She holds a Masters Degree in Public Administration Major in Organization and Management from Western Mindanao State University.

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