Women are encouraged to go for breast cancer screenings this October
The metro also states that 90% of breast cancer patients survive the disease when detection is made earlier.
October is known for being Breast Cancer Awareness month and the metro wants women to go for mammograms in support of the initiative and to keep abreast on their health status.
MMC for health Rina Marx states that one in 26 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime and it’s a disease that can affect men as well, though at a much lower rate.
“The City would like to encourage women to conduct self-examinations, undertake screening, and go for regular mammograms as these are critical for early detection,” said Marx.
According to Cansa national manager Lorraine Govender in a separate statement released by Cansa earlier this month, mammograms do not prevent breast cancer however, they do help detect the disease early to prevent serious consequences and save lives.
The metro states that Breast Cancer Awareness pamphlets with the relevant information can be collected at all of the its primary healthcare facilities. In addition to the pamphlets, educational talks will also be given at the facilities where women can engage and ask further questions about breast cancer as part of Tshwane’s health promotion plan.
“Cansa plays an active role in educating women about the symptoms of breast cancer, and how to do monthly self-examination of breasts. Research has shown that a regular breast self-examination (BSE), plays an important role in discovering breast cancer, compared to finding a breast lump by chance. While not all breast lumps indicate cancer, they should be investigated,” said Govender.
The metro also states that 90% of breast cancer patients survive the disease when detection is made earlier.
Cansa suggests women upwards of 40 should have a mammogram annually, while women 55 and up should have two mammograms annually.
“Some people have gene mutations that make them more likely to develop breast cancer. The most common gene mutations are found in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes which normally produce proteins that protect one from cancer,” Govender explained.
“BRCA1 (BReast CAncer gene 1) and BRCA2 (BReast CAncer gene 2) are genes that produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA. Women with one of the defects have more of a chance of getting breast cancer so should be referred for an annual mammogram,” Govender continued.
The metro also states that the Covid-19 outreach team will include breast cancer awareness in its package of services due to the decline in demand for Covid-19 services.
For those interested in knowing more can email info@cansa.org.za or counselling@cansa.org.za and call 0800 22 66 22 for access to one of its many support groups.
Residents interested in supporting Cansa Women’s initiatives during Breast Cancer Awareness month can do so by purchasing a ‘Doek with a Difference’, a pair of earrings or wrap a tree as part of the Pink Trees for Pauline campaign.
To host or attend a “Cuppa For Cansa” event or Cansa SPAR Tea event, contact Angelique de Witt at adewitt@cansa.org.za or donate via Cansa’s secure, online platforms.
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