SPMC surgical oncologist Dr. Mike Villanueva and breast surgeon Dr. Joan Fabiosa-Reyes raised the concern during the Isyu Karon media forum at The Royal Mandaya Hotel on Friday, October 2.
Villanueva said SPMC continues to encounter breast cancer patients who only seek medical attention after the disease has reached Stage 3 or Stage 4.
He emphasized that detecting breast cancer early may give patients more treatment options and better chances of survival. Villanueva cited survival rates of around 70% to 90% for some early-stage cases, while rates may drop below 60% among patients with more advanced disease.
The doctors, however, noted that the figures discussed during the forum would still need to be validated against Davao-specific cancer data.
Breast cancer remains a major health concern in the Philippines. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) GLOBOCAN 2022 estimated 33,079 new breast cancer cases among Filipino women, making it the leading cancer diagnosed among females in the country. MaghanapFacts
Villanueva said breast cancer may affect women of different age groups and, although uncommon, can also occur in men.
Doctors debunk biopsy misconception
Reyes also sought to correct the belief that touching a breast lump or undergoing a biopsy can cause cancer to spread.
She explained that a biopsy is a standard diagnostic procedure used to determine whether a suspicious mass is cancerous and to guide doctors in choosing the appropriate treatment.
While temporary swelling may occur after a needle biopsy due to inflammation, Reyes said the procedure itself does not make breast cancer more aggressive.
She warned that avoiding medical consultation or delaying a recommended biopsy because of this misconception could allow a potentially cancerous condition to progress.
Reyes also clarified that fibroadenomas are generally benign breast tumors and do not simply turn into cancer. However, she advised patients to have any breast lump evaluated, particularly if it grows or changes.
Treatment varies by patient
Villanueva said treatment for breast cancer depends on several factors, including the type and stage of the disease.
Surgery remains an important part of treatment for many patients, while chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy and, in appropriate cases, immunotherapy may also be considered.
For patients with Stage 4 breast cancer, treatment is individualized based on their condition and other clinical factors.
The doctors also cautioned the public against relying on unverified herbal products or supposed cancer cures promoted online, saying these may delay proper diagnosis and evidence-based treatment.
Financial assistance available
The specialists also reminded patients that financial support may be available through PhilHealth's enhanced Z Benefits Package for breast cancer.
The package, which took effect on March 30, 2024, covers breast cancer cases from Stage 0 to Stage IV, with benefits of up to P1.4 million, depending on the services required.
Covered services may include diagnostic procedures, surgery, chemotherapy, hormonotherapy, targeted therapy, and surveillance or follow-up care.
PhilHealth said the actual benefit depends on the treatment and services prescribed for the patient.
Patients interested in availing themselves of the package are advised to coordinate with a PhilHealth-contracted health facility for eligibility assessment and guidance on the requirements.
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