October is commemorated as the "Pink Month", a global effort to raise awareness of Breast Cancer. According to the Department of Health (DOH), Breast Cancer is the most common cancer among women and the 3rd leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Filipinos.

In celebration of Pink October, Cebu Doctors University Hospital offers 25% off while Mactan Doctors Hospital offers 30% off on its Digital Mammogram Screening for October 2020. Women may undergo screening annually as early as 20 years old to be able to familiarize their breasts and better notice the changes.

Knowing your risk factors and making lifestyle changes to improve your health are steps in the right direction, risk factors of breast cancer includes genetics, age, a history of breast cancer in the family, certain pre-existing breast conditions, and lifestyle-related conditions such as smoking and drinking, and obesity.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some people do not have any signs or symptoms at all, but take note of some of the signs of breast cancer:

• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
• Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
• Pain in any area of the breast.

If you think you have any of these symptoms, you may consult your doctor. Regular screening help saves lives and early detection helps the treatment much easier.

For booking and inquiries, you may contact the following: Cebu Doctors University Hospital- Centre for Women at (032) 253 7512 local 281. Mactan Doctors Hospital at (032) 239- 7002

Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/symptoms.htm
https://www.doh.gov.ph/node/15696