CEBU — Hospitals run by the Cebu Provincial Government are expanding breast cancer screening, consultation, and diagnostic services this October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The initiative brings early detection closer to communities across the province.
Mammogram Machines Now Operational in Four Hospitals
Four province-run hospitals now have fully functional mammogram machines, giving more Cebuanas access to screening without traveling far. These are Cebu Provincial Hospital in Balamban, CPH-Bogo, CPH-Carcar, and CPH-Danao.
Dr. Nikki Baricuatro Catalan-Viscayno, Capitol Piso Health Consultant, said breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the Philippines. It ranks as the country's second leading cause of cancer death. She emphasized that early detection and treatment save lives.
Services Offered Across Capitol-Run Hospitals
CPH-Bogo offers free clinical breast examination throughout October, Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to noon at the OPD. Mammograms are available Tuesdays and Thursdays, while ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy and breast surgery are scheduled Mondays and Wednesdays.
CPH-Danao provides breast examination and mammogram every Wednesday for the first 30 patients. A kickoff on October 7 features a symposium and forum for LGU participants, including barangay health workers and nutrition scholars.
CPH-Balamban offers mammograms Monday to Friday, with morning slots for BHWs and afternoon slots for walk-in patients. Gynecology consultation and breast examination are available Fridays, while core needle biopsy runs Wednesdays through Fridays.
CPH-Carcar provides mammograms every Tuesday and Thursday. Barili District Hospital operates a breast clinic every Tuesday and Friday, offering counseling, risk assessment, and clinical examination when indicated.
Free Ultrasound in Camotes
Ricardo L. Maningo Memorial Hospital in San Francisco, Camotes, offers free breast ultrasound on October 16 from 8:00 AM onwards. Patients must first consult an RLMMH doctor at the OPD and obtain a request. They should bring their PhilHealth PIN, National ID, and Senior Citizen ID if applicable.
Wellness Activity for Capitol Employees
The province is extending its awareness campaign to female Capitol employees through a wellness activity on October 8 from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Governor's Conference Room. The event features Zumba, a breast cancer awareness talk, and free breast examinations.
Referrals for mammography at the four CPHs will be provided when warranted. A pickleball activity follows at 4:30 PM, encouraging employees to wear pink attire. The activity promotes both physical health and community solidarity.
A Call for Early Detection
The provincial government urged Cebuanos to take advantage of available services and undergo breast health checks early. Families and communities are encouraged to remind loved ones to do the same. Awareness matters most when it leads to timely consultation and diagnosis.
