Breast cancer it’s a scary thought and all too many women assume that it won’t happen to them.
In 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685 000 deaths globally. As of the end of 2020, there were 7.8 million women alive who were diagnosed with breast cancer in the past 5 years, making it the world's most prevalent cancer.
The Department of Health (DOH) today emphasized the importance of regular self-breast exam and the critical role of screening in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer among women in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month with this year’s theme, “United We Fight.”
A breast self-examination (BSE) is a method to detect any noticeable changes in one's breast. Early detection of any changes in the breast and seeking immediate consultation will increase one's chances of successful treatment. In high income countries, organized screening programs with mammography have led to earlier diagnosis, and coupled with effective treatment, have led to reductions in breast cancer mortality. There are many challenges, however in implementing such effective organized screening programs in limited resource settings.
According to the 2015 Philippine Cancer Facts and Estimates, breast cancer is the most common (20,267 cases) and the 3rd leading cause of cancer-related deaths (7,384 cases) among the Filipinos, next to lung and liver cancer.
Eating a balanced diet is especially important when you have breast cancer. Proper nutrition may help your body heal from cancer treatment, which can have numerous side effects such as mouth sores, low appetite, nausea, and vomiting. The following foods are based on general recommendations to maintain overall health while living with breast cancer:
• Whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, protein sources like chicken and turkey, fatty fish like trout or salmon, and plant-based proteins sources like lentils and nuts
• Foods high in healthy fats and protein. If you need to maintain or gain weight, incorporate sources of healthy fat like nuts and seeds, avocados, and olive oil as well as protein sources like eggs, chicken, lentils, and fish. Protein-rich foods are especially important for maintaining muscle mass.
• Blended liquids such as milkshakes, smoothies, juices, or soups for those times when you don‘t feel like eating solid foods
• High fiber foods like whole grains, flax seeds, legumes, vegetables and fruits to treat constipation
Therefore, raising awareness and understanding about breast cancer risks, early signs and symptoms and overall breast health awareness is an important part of a public health approach for breast cancer.
Join the October Breast Cancer Awareness month campaign to raise awareness about breast cancer and support women to reduce their breast cancer risks, be screened and seek medical attention, if a suspicious lump is detected. And together let us fight breast cancer.

 References:
https://doh.gov.ph
https://www.healthline.com/health/metastatic-breast-cancer/nutrition