In 2011 and 2012: 117 died of breast cancer in Metro Cebu every year

CEBU, Philippines - At least 117 in Metro Cebu died of breast cancer every year in 2011 and 2012, revealed a study conducted by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc. (RAFI).

RAFI shared the findings at the “Kapistorya sa Kapitolyo” yesterday.

Ronald delos Reyes, coordinator of the Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center (EJACC), said the study also revealed 353 new cases per year in Metro Cebu. Of this number, 164 or 46.39 percent are in Cebu City.

According to a 2012 Globocan Report, as presented by Delos Reyes, breast cancer is the leading cause of death and the fifth cause among women in the Asian Region.

So far, 167,000,000 have been diagnosed around the world.

The report said there are 12,262 new cases around the world yearly, 40 percent of which turned to death within 10 years since diagnosis.

De los Reyes said “late diagnoses” was identified as the reason behind most deaths, as women reportedly often delay the checkup until the condition worsens.

Surgeon Janice Kanico, one of the forum’s guests, said women who don’t get pregnant are likely to get breast cancer as child bearing is a protection against the disease.

Other risk factors, she said, include late menopausal, early menstruation (those who get it at the age of 12 and below), obesity due to high in fats, oral contraceptives (although “minimum”), hormonal replacement therapy and others.

She said 15 to 20 percent of the cases are “familial,” five to 10 percent are hereditary, and 70 to 80 percent are sporadic.

Kanico said it is “not true” that breasts getting hit constantly, the use of deodorant, and underwire bra can cause cancer.

She said women should undergo self-examination always for early detection or have themselves checked by a doctor immediately when they notice lumps in the breast area or near it.

Meanne Alcordo-Solomon, an advocate of breast cancer awareness, said those who are diagnosed with the disease should not rely on alternative medicine and should trust proven and tested treatment.

“You see more of us in October. (This is) to raise awareness, as we don’t want you to lose your mom, your sister, or your aunt…” she said.

October is breast cancer month. — Liv G. Campo/JMO (FREEMAN)