Dr. Raye Abella-Gavile . Medical Oncologist

09/03/2026

Taking care of your mouth during cancer treatment

Cancer treatment works by attacking fast-growing cancer cells, but it can also attack health cells in your mouth.
Mouth problems are common in cancer care, but they may be prevented or managed.

Cancer treatments work by attacking cancer cells that grow fast. But sometimes these treatments also damage healthy cells in your mouth, that cause mouth problems. Your mouth health can be affected at any time during your cancer treatment.

📄 This JAMA Oncology Patient Page describes different types of common mouth problems during treatment and how to care for them.

https://ja.ma/4cfiPep

04/03/2026

In recent decades, there has been a steady increase in cases of Colorectal Cancer in those younger than 50 years old.

Colorectal cancer can be extremely treatable and curable, but early diagnosis is key.

Colorectal cancer comes with warning signs. Unfortunately, they’re frequently attributed to a less serious condition (such as hemorrhoids) or brushed off by those who think they’re too young for colorectal cancer.

Traditionally, colon cancer risk was tied to age, with risk levels elevating after age 50. But a steady increase in cases in those younger than 50 started decades ago. Any change is worth the discussion with your provider. Colorectal cancer can be extremely treatable and curable, but early diagnosis is key.

20/02/2026

Ultrasound-Guided Breast Biopsy: What You Need to Know
🔍 A simple and safe way to check a breast lump

😌 Is it painful?
Everyone feels things differently —
Most people feel pressure, not pain

Will I be put to sleep?
🟢 No general anesthesia needed!
You’ll be awake and comfortable with local anesthesia.
🏠 Most people go home the same day.

⚠️ Are there risks?
Like any procedure, there are a few:
🔸 Mild pain
🔸 Bruising or bleeding
🔸 Rare risk of infection

⏱️ How long does it take?
The biopsy itself takes just a few minutes.

Ultrasound helps guide the needle to the right spot.

12/02/2026

Early detection saves lives but prevention starts with daily choices. Simple lifestyle changes like eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, managing stress, and getting regular checkups can greatly reduce cancer risk.

📍 Visit us at Highway Mabinay, Don Emilio, Brgy. 9, Kabankalan City
☎️ Landline: (034) 471-8881 to 8885 | 445-7796
✉️ Email: hmomhkab@gmail.com
🌐 Website: http://holymotherofmercyhospital.com

Take care of your body today for a healthier tomorrow. Here at Holy Mother of Mercy Group of Hospitals, your health is our mission. 💙

04/02/2026

Today, we celebrate World Cancer Day!

"Let us unite in action, empathy, and resilience—because every unique story matters, and together we can outwork cancer."

Today, we stand together as a global community to celebrate the diversity of every person affected by cancer and to reaffirm our commitment to a future where every individual is valued, supported, and empowered.

Cancer does not discriminate, and neither do we. By embracing our unique experiences, we share knowledge, accelerate innovation, and strengthen compassion—moving closer to prevention, better care, and brighter outcomes for all.

Let us unite in action, empathy, and resilience—because every unique story matters, and together we can outwork cancer.

24/01/2026

Can soy cause breast cancer?

No.

"Soy products contain phytoestrogens — plant-based compounds that act similarly to estrogen when you consume them. That led to the theory that eating soy and soy-based products could raise the risk of developing estrogen-sensitive cancers, including breast cancer.

But here’s the thing: Phytoestrogens, like those found in soy, do resemble estrogen. But they don’t make the same bond with those receptors to fuel cancer cell growth".

Rumors about soy and breast cancer have been around for a long time. But is there any truth to them? Two breast cancer specialists tell you what you need to know.

21/01/2026

Higher ultraprocessed food intake was associated with increased risk of early-onset colorectal conventional adenomas, which are precursors of colorectal cancer.

The results of this study support improving dietary quality as a strategy to mitigate the increasing burden of early-onset colorectal cancer.

Among women under 50, those with the highest ultraprocessed food intake had 45% higher odds of early-onset colorectal conventional adenomas versus those with the lowest intake; no significant association was seen for serrated lesions. https://ja.ma/3YMeVSq

10/01/2026

“I would have to learn to live in a different way, seeing death as an imposing itinerant visitor but knowing that even if I’m dying, until I actually die, I am still living.”
- Dr. Kalanithi, When Breath Becomes Air

Thank you for sharing your story🤎

JOURNEY TO BECOMING A LAWYER AMID CANCER DIAGNOSIS

Battling a rare cancer while navigating law school, she faced relapse, isolation, and the limits of medicine—but also found hope, love, and resilience in the unlikeliest of places. This is how she fought for her life and her dream.

Full story at the link in the comments.

07/01/2026

Does sugar increase cancer risk?

05/01/2026

This January, we celebrate "Liver Cancer and Viral Hepatitis Awareness and Prevention Month" in the Philippines.

Together, let us fight liver cancer with prevention, screening, timely diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment.🦀

Source: https://clinicalvalue.com/hepatocellular-carcinoma-infographic/

04/01/2026

Hope, care, and support for our patients with cancer in 2026.🤎

Please see my updated clinic schedule below. Thank you for your continued trust.