The average woman faces about a 12% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer – meaning roughly 12 out of every 100 women will be diagnosed at some point in their lives. This isn’t shared to alarm, but to raise awareness and encourage proactive action against breast cancer.

To bring this message closer to home, the BCBP Kalibo Women’s Council invited Dr. Janet F. Sarabia to speak at a forum titled “Advocating for Hope: Breast Cancer Awareness.” Held on June 21, 2025, at RS Pan de Niño Café, the event gathered BCBP Kalibo ladies eager to learn from the esteemed speaker and deepen their understanding of breast cancer.

The BCBP Ladies’ Takeaway!

Learning from the best! Dr. Janet F. Sarabia delivering powerful knowledge on Breast Cancer Awareness at BCBP Kalibo’s Ladies’ Breakfast. #BreastCancerAwareness #LadiesBreakfast #BCBPKalibo

Dr. Sarabia reminded everyone that while every woman carries a natural or baseline risk of developing breast cancer, this risk isn’t one-size-fits-all. It can be affected by non-modifiable factors such as age, sex, and genetics – things we cannot change. But there are also modifiable risks: our daily choices like physical activity, diet, alcohol consumption, and smoking. We may not be able to control everything, but we can take steps to care for our bodies and lower our risk. It was a hopeful reminder that prevention often begins with small, everyday decisions.

One of the most empowering takeaways from her talk was the importance of early detection, which doesn’t always begin in a clinic – it begins at home. Dr. Sarabia encouraged all women to be familiar with their own bodies, to regularly check their breasts for lumps, changes in texture, or any unusual discharge. Knowing what feels normal can help you notice what doesn’t. She also shared that for women at average risk, it is generally recommended to begin annual screening mammograms at the age of 40. This kind of regular check-up, paired with self-awareness, can be life-saving.

What made the forum even more meaningful was how personal it became. The ladies in attendance were not just listeners – they were participants. Many shared their own experiences and asked heartfelt questions about their health, their loved ones, and their uncertainties. It was a beautiful moment of sisterhood, learning, and support. It was a powerful reminder that we’re not in this alone – and advocacy starts with awareness and community.

Events like these remind us that awareness can lead to action—and that with the right knowledge and support, we can advocate not just for ourselves, but for each other. #BreastCancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #WomenHealth #BCBPKalibo #LadiesBreakfast