A recent episode of “Happy and Healthy with Connie Sison” highlighted breast cancer, featuring breast surgical oncologist Dr. Emmeline Delos Santos and actress-cancer survivor Kaye Abad as they discussed awareness, hope, and recovery on the YouTube channel’s Wednesday night broadcast.
The health and wellness series, which veteran journalist Connie Sison hosts, aims to make complex medical topics accessible to Filipinos. By leveraging her decades of media experience and her “3-F Mantra"—Fun, Factual, and Fast—Sison aims to empower viewers to make informed health decisions, especially as breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Filipino women.
During the episode, Dr. Emmeline Delos Santos discussed the prevalence of breast cancer in the Philippines, stressing that 31% of cancer cases among women are breast cancer, and highlighting factors such as genetics, hormonal changes, and lifestyle choices. She noted, “I’m sure lahat po tayo may kilala po na mayroong breast cancer.”
Sison underscored the importance of early detection, noting that breast cancer has a 99% survival rate when caught at an early stage. She encouraged viewers not to let fear delay medical consultations.
The discussion tackled common myths, with Dr. Delos Santos debunking the belief that deodorants, hair dyes, or underwire bras cause cancer, stating, “hindi po yun totoo.” The doctor also advised women to seek evaluation for any breast lumps, even though not all are cancerous.
Actress Kaye Abad shared her personal journey, revealing that doctors detected her cancer late and that it had already spread to her liver and lymph nodes. “Mine was very late… I thought I’m gonna die,” she admitted, reflecting the emotional toll and confusion she felt during diagnosis.
Abad revealed that her motivation to fight came from her children, saying, “I still want to see my kids grow.” She also credited her husband’s positivity and the power of prayer for sustaining her through treatment.
Dr. Delos Santos emphasized that while early-stage breast cancer is highly curable, advances in treatment mean that even advanced cases can now be managed for quality of life. She added, “It’s not something na katulad dati na kapag may cancer, bilang na yung araw mo. Ngayon hindi na.”
The affordability of breast cancer medications in the Philippines compared to other countries was also discussed. Dr. Delos Santos noted, “It’s more affordable sa atin dito,” offering reassurance to viewers concerned about costs.
As the episode drew to a close, Abad, who underwent surgery and forced menopause due to her cancer, shared her cautious optimism about returning to showbiz, prioritizing her family’s needs as she continues her journey of recovery.