Keep abreast of your health

With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it's important that every woman knows how to ensure her breast health.

It shouldn't be left only to medical practitioners: women should take their breast health into their own hands - literally.

With one in every 29 South African women affected by breast cancer, according to the Cancer Association of South Africa, breast self-examinations are non-negotiable.

Dr Carol Benn, breast health expert, says the earlier the disease is detected and treated, the higher the chance of recovery.

“Nine out of 10 women diagnosed with early breast cancer will be alive after five years; and those who survive for five years will very likely live their normal lifespan.

“It’s vitally important for women of all ages to do a monthly breast self-examination. That said, it’s important to remember that 90% of breast lumps are not cancer, so if you find a lump in your breast, do not be afraid to go to your doctor.”

According to Benn, regular exercise, healthy eating and low alcohol intake can prevent nearly half of breast cancers.

Benn's 10 things every woman should know about breast health

1. Seventy percent of all women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors, so don’t be complacent.
2. No woman is entirely safe from breast cancer, but you can lower your risk by making sensible lifestyle changes — exercise, eat healthily, don’t smoke and lower your alcohol intake.
3. Keep a close eye on your bra - it doesn’t just enhance your silhouette, it helps support your breasts.
4. Examine your breasts at least once a month and if you are over 40, go for an annual mammogram, sonar and clinical examinations.
5. You are exposed to more radiation from a shopping mall than you are from a mammogram.
6. The general practitioner or GP is the first port of call for a patient. But the diagnosis of a breast problem should be made by a specialist radiologist in a radiology suite.
7. Breast cancer does not require emergency treatment. If diagnosed, take your time to investigate your options and fully understand your situation. Genetic sampling can assist to better target therapies.
8. A multi-disciplinary care centre management approach to breast cancer is recommended. Seek advice and treatment options from a team of specialists.
9. A woman can now get excellent breast cancer treatment from the public healthcare system without assistance from a medical scheme. The Helen Joseph Breast Care Clinic is a leading example.
10. Breast reconstruction can be performed at the time of cancer surgery. It is usually a minimum benefit on most medical aids – and it’s safe.

Get more information at the CANSA website