Breast cancer remains one of the most pressing health concerns for women worldwide, and early detection plays a crucial role in improving survival rates. Recognizing this need, FUJIFILM Philippines, Inc., in collaboration with Digimed Medical Systems, Inc., successfully hosted the Breast Ultrasound Intervention & Contrast-Enhanced Mammography Workshop on January 24, 2025, at The Medical City Pangasinan. The workshop was designed to equip healthcare professionals with the latest imaging technologies and best practices for breast cancer detection and diagnosis.
Leading the workshop was Dr. Ma. Theresa S. Buenaflor, M.D., FPCR, a highly respected radiologist specializing in breast imaging. She provided hands-on ultrasound demonstrations and shared her expertise on advanced breast imaging techniques, best practices for early breast cancer detection, and the clinical applications of ultrasound in breast assessment. The workshop also showcased Fujifilm’s newly acquired mammography system at The Medical City Pangasinan, further reinforcing Fujifilm’s commitment to advancing breast cancer diagnostics.
The event brought together key figures in the medical imaging industry, including Jun Buenaflor, President of Digimed Medical Systems, Inc., along with his team. With over 26 years of experience, Digimed has built a strong reputation as a trusted channel partner of FUJIFILM Philippines, Inc., delivering innovative medical imaging solutions to healthcare providers across the country.
Also in attendance was Takashi Miyako, Vice President and General Manager of the Medical Division at FUJIFILM Philippines, Inc. In his address, Miyako emphasized the critical importance of early breast cancer detection, highlighting the significant impact it has on survival rates.
Miyako also shared a personal story that underscores why early detection is so important:
“Early detection of breast cancer is the most important. Even my wife had something in her breast, but because of early detection, after surgery, it was already gone. On a yearly basis, I want her to check for breast cancer. It’s important—not just for her, but for the family as well.” – Takashi Miyako
Miyako also shed light on the urgent need to improve breast cancer screening rates in the Philippines, where the mortality rate is 35% due to late detection, often at Stage 2 or 3. He pointed out the stark contrast in screening rates between countries—only 1% of Filipino women undergo regular breast cancer screening, compared to 40% in Japan and 80% in the United States. This gap highlights the need for greater awareness, accessibility, and proactive screening initiatives to help save more lives.
Reaffirming Fujifilm’s commitment to women’s health, Miyako assured that FUJIFILM Philippines, Inc., remains dedicated to equipping healthcare providers with advanced imaging solutions to detect breast cancer at its earliest and most treatable stage. By continuously innovating and expanding access to cutting-edge diagnostic tools, Fujifilm aims to support better patient outcomes and contribute to a future where breast cancer is detected early and treated effectively.
Through initiatives like this workshop, FUJIFILM Philippines, Inc., and Digimed Medical Systems, Inc., continue to strengthen their mission of providing healthcare professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance breast cancer detection and improve patient care in the Philippines.
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