Members of the Estcourt Senior Citizens Club listened attentively to Sister Joan who delivered a talk on breast cancer at the club’s weekly Wednesday meeting. With October being breast cancer awareness month, the talk was relevant and well received by the members. Sister Joan is a nurse based at Medical Hall and shared her medical knowledge about signs and symptoms, prevention, self-examination and dispelled myths and related facts.

At the outset of her talk Sister Joan said that breast cancer is known as the ‘silent killer’ because there rarely is any pain immediately. She explained the procedure of self-examination, emphasising to members that should any abnormality be detected, a visit to the doctor or clinic is essential. “Symptoms include a rash around the nipple, skin discolouration, the shape or size of your breasts may differ and sometimes there may even be a bloody discharge from the nipple. If diagnosed early, the prognosis for breast cancer is excellent,” she explained.

Sister Joan said that women who have passed menopause are more prone to breast cancer, adding that there was a misconception that older persons could not get breast cancer. “Listen to your body and if you notice any abnormalities, the red lights should start flickering,” said Sister Joan.

To conclude she said that while breast cancer was rare in men, it was advisable for men to be aware of the signs too.
She also advised on the proper food and quantities of food to eat for diabetics. The club welcomed the talk and agreed that it was informative. Raffle winners were also presented with their gifts. The club thanks Natasha, Jayshree and Bina Sookhinunthen for sponsoring the gifts for this successful raffle.

The winners were Mr R Kallicharan, Rob Jordaan, Imraan Khan, Nishaan, A Peer and Nelly Sewpersan.
Don’t forget that the Estcourt Senior Citizens Club will be celebrating International Day for Older Persons on November 8. If you would like to get involved please contact Mrs Nandan on 036 352 3204 or Mrs RD Peerbhay on 036 352 5186.