The event was held at the DGS Junior school hall on a Saturday afternoon as guests arrived promptly to hear from our three panel speakers on the various issues regarding management of breast cancer.

Dr. Ava Kwong, class of 1989, Honorary Assistant Professor of Breast Surgery Division at HKU Medical Center, started off by introducing the general methods of early diagnosis including self breast-examination, ultrasonography, cytology and pathology. Various options and techniques for surgical treatment were then covered in greater detail. Guests were also given a glimpse of the advances in breast cancer management particularly in the screening process, such as the MRI scan, PET scan and the hereditary risk factor.

Dr. Gordon Au, Cluster Chief of Service (Clinical Oncology) of Hong Kong West Cluster and Chief of Service and Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Mary Hospital, subsequently gave us a perspective of the various choices of treatment, focusing mainly on radiotherapy, chemotheraphy, hormonal manipulation and molecularly targeted therapy. The audience gained insights on the characteristics and side effects of such treatment.

Finally Dr. Vivian Wong, our DOGA president, who has been active in cancer screening and patient support for many years, gave an authentic presentation from the perspective of a patient and breast nurse through her outspoken and candid sharing. Chairing the Central Oncology Committee of the Hospital Authority, Vivian was able to contribute her insights both from the view of a doctor and that from a patient, which the audience found interesting and valuable.

The take-home message from Dr. Vivian Wong for everyone was prevention through frequent self-examination (look after yourself!), early treatment with support from friends and family and practicing psychological therapy (post-treatment). With an extreme positive outlook on life, Dr. Wong has been an excellent walking example and inspiration to all of us.

The event has been a most valuable opportunity to learn about breast cancer from all significant perspectives from a group of professionals in their respective expertise. An eager Q&A session concluded the event as the audience was left with profound knowledge on the subject.