Stay A-Breast: Awareness is Power

October 7, 2022

Not all diseases affect biological make-ups equally. Some of them are more predominant in men and others, more in women.

The female body, in particular, is made up of body parts designed for reproduction, making them more prone to reproductive-related diseases. One of those is breast cancer.

While men can also have breast cancer, it’s a disease that largely affects the female population. It begins when cancerous cells in one or both breasts grow out of control and spread the cells into other parts of the body through the blood or lymph system.

A few facts about breast cancer.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 alone. By the end of that year, 7.8 million women alive have been diagnosed with breast cancer in the past 5 years, making it the most prevalent cancer globally.

It’s no different in the Philippines. Breast cancer tops the list of most common cancers amongst women, together with cervical cancer. Women ages 50 years old and above are also more likely to have the disease, especially during or after menopause.

How to do a self-check at home.

Early detection is key. When you’re experiencing unusual symptoms such as skin patches, nipple discharge, pain, and lumps, it’s best to do a breast self-exam at home to see if further medical evaluation is needed.

Here’s how to do it:

Remove your top and brassiere then stand in front of a mirror. Straighten your shoulders and place your arms on your hips. Check for any changes to the look and shape of your breasts.
Raise your arms. This stretches the skin of your breasts, making it easier to spot changes you may have missed the first time around.
Using the pads of your fingers, feel around your breast, both above and underneath. Take note of any bumps, unusual skin elasticity, or pain.
Lie down. Once again, touch your breast area for any notable sensations or growths.

Know the risks and prevention steps.

Studies show that 1 out of 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime—that’s a lot. If you have a family member who was diagnosed with the disease, you’re more likely to develop it, too. Women who are overweight also have higher risks of getting breast cancer.

You can lower your risks by:

Keeping your weight in check. Especially after menopause, being overweight can increase your chances of getting breast cancer.
Staying physically active. To maintain or lose weight, create an exercise routine that you’ll love and do regularly.
Eating healthy. A balanced diet is always important when it comes to preventing diseases. Fruits and vegetables should be your best friend.
Limiting alcohol intake. If possible, don’t drink alcohol at all. Alcohol is known to increase risks of breast cancer.
Avoiding cigarettes. Smoking causes 15 different kinds of cancers, including breast cancer. If you needed a sign to quit smoking, this is it.
Getting a mammogram screening. While self-checks may help, you’ll need a thorough medical assessment to know for sure if you have breast cancer. Schedule a mammogram screening with your doctor if you think you might have unusual symptoms.

The costs of treatment.

In the Philippines, cancer treatment can range between PHP120,000 to PHP1,000,000, depending on the cancer stage, equipment needed, and confinement period. Mastectomy operations are also an expensive medical procedure and can require weeks of recovery in the hospital.

That’s why as early as now, you should be prepared for whatever comes your way.

Paramount Direct offers a strategic financial solution through one of its comprehensive insurance plans called PrimeHealth Cash Plan should you be diagnosed with cancer or other covered critical illness such as heart attack, stroke, coronary artery bypass surgery and end-stage renal failure requiring dialysis.

The PrimeHealth Cash Plan provides up to PHP400,000 life benefit, up to PHP400,000 accidental death benefit, up to PHP400,000 critical illness benefit and up to PHP20,000/month medical assistance benefit.

For as low as PHP229*/month, individuals from ages 40 up to 74 years old may get the protection they need. Payment and coverage period is until 80 years old.

Don’t delay your protection. Take that first step today.

*Based on Age 40 and Plan 100

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