Why early breast cancer screening matters and where to get it
Early detection saves lives. This National Women’s Month, The Medical City Clinic encourages women to prioritize their breast health through digital mammography.
As the Philippines observes National Women’s Month, health experts are reminding women that caring for others should not come at the expense of caring for themselves. One important step women can take for their long-term health is regular breast cancer screening.
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Filipino women. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer, the Philippines recorded more than 33,000 new breast cancer cases and over 11,000 deaths in 2022.
What makes the disease particularly concerning is that many cases are detected only in later stages, when treatment becomes more difficult.
Signs and symptoms women should not ignore
While breast cancer can develop without obvious symptoms in its early stages, doctors advise women to watch for changes such as:
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A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
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Changes in breast size or shape
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Skin dimpling or redness on the breast
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Nipple discharge that is not breast milk
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Inverted nipple or pain in the nipple area
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Persistent breast pain or swelling
Health experts emphasize that not all lumps are cancer, but any unusual change should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Understanding the risk factors
Certain factors may increase a woman’s likelihood of developing breast cancer, including:
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Being 40 years old and above
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A family history of breast cancer
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Personal history of breast conditions
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Hormonal factors such as early menstruation or late menopause
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Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity
Even women without these risk factors can still develop breast cancer, which is why routine screening remains important.
The role of early screening
Doctors emphasize that early detection significantly improves survival rates. Mammography can detect breast cancer even before symptoms appear, allowing doctors to identify abnormalities at an earlier stage.
Digital mammography, a more advanced form of breast imaging, produces clearer, high-resolution images of breast tissue and allows faster processing of results. This enables physicians to detect subtle changes that may not yet be felt during a physical examination.
Making screening more accessible
To support preventive healthcare for women, The Medical City Clinic (TMC Clinic) is encouraging women to include breast screening as part of their regular health routine.
Digital Mammography is available for ₱2,200 at select TMC Clinic locations, including:
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Ayala Malls TriNoma, Quezon City
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Gateway Mall, Quezon City
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iL Centro, Pasig City
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Santolan Town Plaza, San Juan
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SM City Fairview, Quezon City
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SM City Grand Central, Caloocan
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SM Mall of Asia, Pasay
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Sta. Lucia Mall, Cainta
Through accessible screening and a growing clinic network, TMC Clinic encourages Filipino women to take proactive steps in protecting their health.
After all, true empowerment includes the ability to prioritize one’s own well-being.
For consultations, visit TMC Clinic near you or call (02) 8396-9899.
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