Breast cancer awareness, be empowered
Netcare Krugersdorp Hospital made it their mission to teach women about breast cancer during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“Cancer does not grow overnight, so it is important to not ignore the warning signs,” Dr Fathima Docrat told a roomful of women at Netcare Krugersdorp Hospital.
The women had gathered for a breast cancer awareness day on 30 October, with everyone dressed in pink while they were addressed by Dr Docrat and the head of Reach for Recovery, Sandra Strydom. There were even a few prizes up for grabs.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, but it can affect men as well.
Dr Docrat suggested that women start going for regular breast exams from the age of 40 but if there is a family history of breast cancer, to start earlier.
Sandra told the women of her own struggle with breast cancer and emphasised the importance of knowing your risk of breast cancer.
Reach for Recovery is an international breast cancer support group that not only supports women before and while they are fighting cancer, but also after. They have care bags they distribute after a woman has had a mastectomy, which contain a soft bag for the drain, a stress ball and a soft prosthesis.
“It is the small things that make the difference,” she said to the women.
She also made a point of telling them that being informed is empowering and encouraged them to learn as much about breast cancer as they can.
Some symptoms of breast cancer include swelling of all or part of the breast, skin changes like dimpling, scaling, thickening or redness, nipple pain or change in appearance, a lump in the underarm area or (very rarely) breast pain.
Dr Docrat also offered free exams to the first 20 patients and every woman received a 20 per cent discount on a future breast exam.
