Doctor urges men with breast lumps to get tested for cancer

By Benilda Recebido

SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon --- Men who notice a lump, chest skin changes, or nipple discharge should get tested for breast cancer early for better treatment outcomes.

A government doctor shared this advice during the ‘Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices, Be Your Own Breast Friend’ forum organized by the Department of Health and the Provincial Health Office of Sorsogon on October 2, marking the observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the province.

Dr. Diane Marie Toledo, non-communicable disease cluster head of Sorsogon Provincial Health Office, emphasized that while breast cancer is more common in women, men also develop the dreaded disease.

About one in 1,000 is the risk for a man to get breast cancer, according to records of the Philippine Statistics Authority.

Thus, Toledo strongly encouraged both women and men to undergo annual clinical breast examinations, especially if they notice symptoms such as breast lumps, skin dimpling, nipple discharge, or breast asymmetry.

The event gathered around 100 participants, mostly women aged 50 and above, as well as individuals aged 30 and above with first-degree relatives diagnosed with breast cancer.

Toledo said the campaign aims to raise awareness of breast cancer prevention and early detection.

One attendee, Lovella Floralde, 48, from Matnog, said she valued the event and its purpose.

“This is truly important because it helps us understand where cancer comes from. It also allows us to share with our women’s group how to detect it and identify the type of cancer that may be developing inside the body,” she shared.

Maria Magdalena Deri, 58, from Barangay San Isidro in Bacon District, also joined the event and took part in a clinical breast exam.

“This is a big help for people like us who have limited means to visit doctors or specialists. It is truly a blessing to be invited to this kind of activity by DOH,” she said, adding, “For me and my fellow residents, opportunities like this should be grabbed.”

After the discussion, doctors conducted clinical breast examinations to emphasize the importance of early detection and regular screening. (Bertuldo Jr. Bueza contributed to this article/PIA Bicol/Sorsogon)

A participant undergoes a clinical breast examination as part of the breast cancer awareness and early detection activity held on October 2, 2025 in Sorsogon. The initiative aims to promote women’s health and encourage early screening for breast cancer. (Photo: PIA 5/Sorsogon)