Knowledge is power: Reiger Park community learns to fight cancer
Survivors, healthcare experts, and community members gathered to learn, share, and raise awareness about cancer prevention, screenings, and lifestyle choices that save lives.
Reiger Park Cancer Support Group turned the library into a hub of conversation, learning, and hope as it marked World Cancer Day on February 4.
Survivors, community members, and health experts gathered not just to talk about cancer, but to talk about living well despite it.
The day’s highlight was Professor Sebastian Keith McDonald Magobotha, a highly qualified Orthopaedic Surgeon formerly associated with Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital and the University of the Witwatersrand.
Professor Magobotha captivated the audience with a clear message: “Prevention starts with simple lifestyle choices and awareness. Prevention isn’t complicated; it just requires discipline and attention,” he said.
He urged the community to adopt habits that reduce cancer risk, including stopping smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, protecting the skin from the sun, eating a balanced diet, being mindful of sexual health, and getting regular screenings and vaccinations.
Professor Magobotha also highlighted the growing threat of breast cancer, emphasising the importance of self-examination.
“Divide your breast into four quadrants and use circular motions to feel deeply, including the armpits. Doing this every day can help detect changes early,” he explained.
“For those who are sexually active, a major concern is exposure to high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) strains. These strains are linked to nearly all cervical cancers and many cancers of the anus, throat, vagina, vulva, and penis.
“Most people who are sexually active will encounter HPV at some point, but in the majority of cases, the body’s immune system clears the infection naturally, he said.
The specialist also warned that pancreatic cancer often goes undetected until it is too late, underlining the need for vigilance and routine medical check-ups.
He challenged common misconceptions about cancer.
“Cancer is not always a death sentence. Many forms of cancer can be managed successfully if detected early. The key is knowing your body, being aware of changes, and seeing a doctor regularly.”
Nurse Ivan Johnson of Reiger Park Clinic reinforced this message.
“People shouldn’t wait until they’re sick to visit the clinic. Regular check-ups, vaccination, and understanding the services available to you are vital. Prevention is always better than cure,” he said.
Chairperson of the support group, Ulita Billings, reflected on the day’s theme, ‘United by Unique’.
She said every experience with cancer is personal, and it takes a united effort to see the person before the patient.
“World Cancer Day is a reminder that communities must come together to support each other, raise awareness, and ensure that care addresses real needs.”
Attendees left feeling informed, empowered, and motivated to share what they had learned with their families and neighbours.
Billings thanked everyone for attending and praised the collaboration of health professionals, survivors, and community members.
“The success of today’s event shows that when a community unites, knowledge spreads, and lives can be changed,” she said.
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