DOH-13 leads in the campaign for early breast cancer detection
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — In a vital step towards improving public health, the Department of Health - Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga, in partnership with PhilHealth Caraga and the city government of Butuan, recently kicked off the Breast Cancer Early Detection Services in the region, as part of the Breast Cancer Awareness Month dubbed as 'Pink October.'
The activity entitled ‘Ka-BREASTfriend’ increased the awareness and accessibility of the screening services for breast cancer as one of the most diagnosed cancer diseases globally, thus encouraging women in the region to prioritize early detection.
The program will offer a range of services, including educational workshops, screenings, and support resources, fostering a community-focused approach to fighting breast cancer.
In his message, Dr. Cesar C. Cassion, regional director IV of the DOH- CHD Caraga emphasized the importance of prioritizing women's health in the country.
"Today marks a significant milestone in our shared mission to promote the health and well-being of every Filipino. This moment is about empowering women, their families, and our communities with hope, awareness, and the means to protect their lives from one of the most prevalent and deadly diseases affecting women today," said Dir. Cassion.
"Let us not view this as merely a campaign. Let it be a call to action. Help spread the word, encourage every woman you know to take advantage of these early detection services, and remind them that their health is the our greatest asset. With your support, we can reach more women, especially those in underserved areas, and ensure they have access to the care they need.", he added.
The gathering was also part of the health sectors’ intensified efforts on fighting against breast cancer that aligned with Republic Act No. 11215 and the National Integrated Cancer Control Act, emphasizing the government’s support to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Breast Cancer Initiative, a worldwide movement to detect, treat, and reduce the burden of breast cancer.
Survivors and advocates Ezeil Cervantes and Dr. Winona Bernas Amante shared their testimonies of resilience and triumph during their battle against the disease.
“The whole journey, from surgery, to chemotherapy, to radiation were life-changing experiences. It showed me how God’s love goes on forever, without end. And in his endless love, he provides not just physical healing but most importantly, our spiritual well-being,” said Dr. Amante.
Cervantes emphasized the importance of cancer awareness and shouldn’t be brushed off women‘s minds because they are prone to inherit it. She shared how she moved forward and chose the preventive lifestyle after she got diagnosed which led her to the creation of her restaurant, the ‘Juiced-Colors of Health.’
“More than awareness, let us be proactive in dealing and preventing this illness,” she said.
The event was also joined by the Rotary Club of Butuan District 3860 to deliver their pledge of commitment and participated in the pinning of pink ribbons to formalize their partnership with the department’s campaign.
Dr. Maria Theresa Martirez - Salisi, president of the Rotary Club of Midtown Butuan assured the club’s unwavering support to the agency’s cause.
“Today marks the beginning of a beautiful partnership with you. We, the nine clubs of Rotary, manifest our strong commitment of support in this advocacy”, said Dr. Martirez - Salisi.
“Through this partnership, we will strengthen the force, and together we can help save lives and create hope in the world.”, she added. (RVEL/PIA-Caraga)