Public teachers learn easy way to detect breast cancer

(13 February 2014) In the photo, a nurse from the Tacurong Office of the City Health Services (OCHS) examines a teacher in Upper Katungal Elementary School. During examination, OCHS personnel instruct each female teacher on how to do breast self-examination. A breast self exam is a check-up that a woman can do at home to look for changes or problems in the breast tissue such as possible lumps, distortions or swelling. This is one of the strategies for early detection of breast cancer.  Those who have been found with lumps and swelling during OCHS survey were referred to get breast ultrasound or a mammogram screening. Breast examination is part of OCHS’ Primary Care Benefit I survey in every public elementary and high school in the city. The survey started on December 2013. In this survey, teachers’ health profiles are noted including height, weight, blood pressure, and medical history. OCHS doctors also conduct free medical check-ups and consultations. Teachers are encouraged to be more aware of their health conditions and be more informed of the ways to maintain good well-being. Last leg of the OCHS survey is on the 3^rd and 4^th week of February with Tacurong National High School and Tacurong Pilot Elementary School—the biggest elementary and high schools in the city. (LGU-Tacurong City Information)