THE battle to defeat breast cancer among Pangasinan women shifted to a higher level after the Region I Medical Center (R1MC) announced it is offering free mammogram services to 30 women in observance of the celebration of the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.

The hospital encourages women to undergo early breast screening so a malignant breast cancer can be detected and be cured.

Dr. Sharon Sandoval, a medical oncologist at the R1MC, said the beneficiaries of this year’s program is still limited, she expects the number to increase next year.

Headed by the R1MC Gender and Development Department, women availed of the free mammogram every Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon throughout the month and will continue for as long as slots are available.

According to hospital logs, 70 to 80 percent of breast cancer patients at the R1MC are already at stages 3 to 4.

Dr. Sandoval said breast cancer is a silent killer – caused by many factors such as genetics or family history, late menopause, early onset of puberty, obesity, consumption of processed foods, and vices such as drinking alcohol and smoking.

While genetics cannot be controlled, Sandoval said that one can minimize the risks of having one through proper eating and lifestyle habits.

She urged women to seek early consultation to minimize risks of cancer. (Ahikam Pasion)

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