Last October, Hyundai Asia Resources, Inc., (HARI) in partnership with the UP-PGH and UP-PGH Cancer Institute launched the first mobile diagnostic clinic that’s specially designed to diagnose breast cancer. Today, the “Alagang Breastfriend” Mobile Diagnostic Clinic successfully completed its first medical mission.
Based on a Hyundai H-350, it was transformed into a state-of-the-art diagnostic clinic equipped with mammography and breast ultrasound facilities. With the help of HARI’s corporate social responsibility arm, HARI Foundation, Inc., the Alagang Breastfriend (the foundation’s flagship wellness campaign) has so far benefited 40 indigent patients during its first medical mission.
For HARI Foundation, this initiative has become more relevant at a time as the Philippines tops the list of the highest incidence of breast cancer among Asian countries. Department of Health figures state that one out of every 13 Filipinas can develop breast cancer. Early detection is the key to higher survival rates.
Addressing patients and medical staff, HFI President Ma. Fe Perez-Agudo declared, “We are doing something for the Filipina, and ultimately for our nation. We value your presence here today because we see that you value your health. You want to be strong so that you may keep on caring for the people who rely on your love and support.”
In response, UP-PGH Executive Director Dr. Gerardo Legaspi cited the program as “a good example for screening and preventive care” that other health institutes could follow. “This project was realized just in time with the recent passing of the National Integrated Cancer Control Act and the Universal Health Care Act (UHC).”
The National Integrated Cancer Control Act seeks to promote the health and wellbeing of every Filipino and to cut down by at least 30 percent incidences of premature death due to cancer and other non-communicable diseases. The UHC aims to provide all Filipinos access to complete, high-quality, and affordable health care services.
“I look forward to have more mobile diagnostic clinics go around the country to touch more lives and so touch base with more women. I believe that the earlier you get to know your state of health, the earlier you can find a solution,” said Ms. Agudo.
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