#Women’sDay: CANSA urges SA women to get screened
CANSA encourages women to get screened and challenge other women to get screened.
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) encourages women to get screened for both breast and cervical cancer.
CANSA, a leading role-player in cancer research, supports the National Department of Health’s efforts to prioritise awareness of breast and cervical cancer and to provide women with knowledge of the symptoms, screening opportunities and lowering their risk of developing the disease.
According to Gerda Strauss, CANSA’s Head of Service Delivery, in line with its 365 Day Health Challenge in August, CANSA encourages women to get screened and to proactively share this on every available platform, including social media, encouraging and challenging other women to get screened.
She said breast cancer is the most common cancer among South African women, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 27, according to the 2014 National Cancer Registry (NCR). She added that cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths and the second most commonly diagnosed cancer (excluding basal cell carcinoma) amongst women.
“The estimated lifetime risk of developing cancer among all women in South Africa is 1:42. Research has shown that a limited knowledge of symptoms, as well as misconceptions, stigma and shame around cancer and screening, especially cervical cancer, cause delays in women going for screening or seeking appropriate care.”
She further emphasised the importance of screening and early detection.
“We urge women to get to know what is normal for their bodies, so that when they do a monthly breast self-examination (BSE), they can detect any changes, signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Get to know the warning signs and symptoms. We’re excited to share an educational video that shows women how to perform a BSE – it’s available on our website and social media platforms from 9 August. Women who recognise these symptoms should urgently contact CANSA, a health practitioner or their local clinic for a Clinical Breast Examination (CBE).
“Women who have no symptoms of breast cancer should request an annual CBE when visiting primary health care centres as it’s their right, as per the National Department of Health Breast Cancer Control Policy. Women with a family history of breast cancer should be especially aware of symptoms and not neglect screening”, added Strauss.
Visit www.cansa.org.za or contact the nearest CANSA Care Centre, call CANSA toll-free 0800 22 66 22 or email info@cansa.org.za. In addition to online resources and Facebook support groups, CANSA offers multi-lingual support on WhatsApp. Dial 072 197 9305 for English and Afrikaans and 071 867 3530 for Xhosa, Zulu, Sotho and Siswati. Follow CANSA on Twitter @CANSA, join CANSA on Facebook: CANSA The Cancer Association of South Africa and follow CANSA on Instagram @cancerassociationofsouthafrica and LinkedIn.
