Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) is intensifying its campaign for the early detection of breast cancer this October, in line with Breast Cancer Awareness Month and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to strengthen healthcare access nationwide.

According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Edwin Mercado reminded women to take advantage of the agency's expanded benefits and screening packages, emphasizing that breast cancer is highly curable when detected early. Mercado highlighted the PhilHealth Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) as a means to make health services more accessible and affordable, urging women not to delay prioritizing their health.

Despite being one of the most treatable cancers, breast cancer remains a leading cause of death among Filipino women due to late diagnosis. A 2023 study by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies revealed that only 1 percent of Filipino women undergo cancer screening, with approximately 540,000 out of an estimated 54 million participating. An estimated 65 percent of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, significantly reducing survival rates.

To ease the financial burden of cancer care, PhilHealth has enhanced its Z Benefit Package for Breast Cancer, increasing the maximum coverage from PHP100,000 to up to PHP1.4 million, a 1,300 percent increase. The benefit now encompasses patients across Stages 0 to 4, including those already undergoing treatment. As of September, PhilHealth has disbursed PHP72.03 million under this package.

The agency's YAKAP further supports prevention efforts by covering outpatient breast cancer screening tests, including mammograms at PHP2,610 and breast ultrasounds at PHP1,350. PhilHealth's goal is to eliminate cost as a barrier to early diagnosis and treatment and encourage women to seek timely medical care.

For inquiries about PhilHealth's YAKAP and Z Benefit Packages for Breast Cancer, members may contact the PhilHealth 24/7 hotlines at (02) 866-225-88 or mobile numbers 0998-857-2957, 0968-865-4670 (Smart), and 0917-127-5987, 0917-110-9812 (Globe).