Fighting Women’s Cancer: Insights from Dr. Rubi Li of St. Luke’s Cancer Institute Quezon City
In the Philippines, cervical, ovarian, and breast cancer are the leading cancers affecting women. While various risk factors contribute to these diseases, Dr. Rubi Li, head of the Cancer Institute at St. Luke’s Quezon City, shares valuable insights on how women can fight back against these cancers through early detection, lifestyle changes, and advanced treatments.
The Importance of Early Detection
“When it comes to breast cancer, the easiest way to catch it early is through yearly mammogram, which remain the gold standard for early diagnosis,” says Dr. Li. She stresses the importance of comparing mammogram results over time to detect even the smallest changes.
For ovarian and cervical cancer, she highlights the crucial role of pap smears in early detection. “Regular screenings can significantly increase the chances of detecting these cancers at an early stage when they are curable,” she adds.
A Shift Towards Early-Stage Diagnoses
Dr. Li notes a positive shift in cancer detection trends. “More cancers are now being detected in their early stages compared to a few years ago when most cases were only identified at a later stage,” she shares. This progress is largely attributed to increased awareness and education on women’s cancer care.
Lifestyle and Cancer Risk
Beyond medical screenings, lifestyle choices play a major role in cancer risk. “Cleanliness is very important, especially in reproductive health,” Dr. Li emphasizes. Additionally, smoking and alcohol consumption have been found to significantly increase the risk of developing cancer.
The Role of Advanced Technology in Cancer Care
Innovations in cancer diagnosis and treatment continue to transform patient care. Digital mammography improves detection accuracy, while targeted therapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by attacking cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
In 2025, St. Luke’s Cancer Institute in Quezon City introduced the Cancer Specialty Clinic, a multidisciplinary approach to cancer care. This innovation streamlines patient care by reducing the need for multiple consultations with different specialists. “With the Cancer Specialty Center, a team of doctors will be looking into your case and give you the best options for treatments in the shortest possible time,” explains Dr. Li.
A Message of Hope
Dr. Li concludes with an empowering message: “Gone are the days when cancer was considered a death sentence. It’s not true. Talk to your oncologist, ask questions, and make informed decisions about your treatment. We are here to help you through this journey.”
With awareness, early detection, and advanced treatment, women now have more options than ever to fight and survive cancer.
Dr. Rubi Li is the Head of the Cancer Institute at St. Luke’s Medical Center – Quezon City and the founder of the Cancer Specialty Clinic. She has held several key leadership positions in the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology, including president, vice president, treasurer, council member, and chair of the Committee on Scientific Activities. A dedicated member of numerous medical societies and organizations, Dr. Li also serves as the principal investigator in over 20 international clinical trials and has contributed to several peer-reviewed publications.
