Dis-Chem encourages breast and cervical cancer screening

The old adage that prevention is better than cure holds true and self-breast examinations and annual pap smear check-ups are crucial to early diagnosis.

With Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in September, and Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Dis-Chem is emphasising the importance of self-breast examinations and cervical cancer screenings. Cervical cancer screenings detect cell changes in the cervix and early cervical cancer before they cause symptoms.

“Breast cancer affects approximately 27 in 100 000 women in South Africa, and accounts for 16% of cancer deaths amongst women. Women have a one in 42 lifetime risk of getting cervical cancer¹ and in South Africa it is the cancer that most women die from.  The reality is that the incidence of cancer is becoming more commonplace and the later it is detected, the harder it becomes to treat successfully, which is why we are placing emphasis on breast examinations,” comments Kruger.

“Cervical and breast cancer can be treated successfully if detected early enough, so it is vital for women to be aware of the symptoms, and to go for regular screenings,” says Lizeth Kruger, Dis-Chem’s Clinic Executive. “Dis-Chem offers both breast examinations and pap smears at a very affordable rate, and our clinic network makes it convenient and accessible for women to have their annual check-ups.”

This is in line with Dis-Chem’s focus on integrated primary healthcare, of which a central component is prevention and early diagnosis of conditions that can lead to more serious diseases.

Cervical cancer is closely linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, mostly found in 15 – 59-year-old men and women.

While the virus is not life-threatening and there are not always visible symptoms, it can develop into other health issues, most commonly genital warts in men, and can lead to penile and anal cancer.

“Over 40 types of HPV can infect the genital area as well as the mouth and throat and are spread during sexual contact. It is recommended that both men and women get vaccinated as soon as they become sexually active,” says Kruger,

Not to be confused with HIV or HSV (genital herpes), the HPV virus is transmitted via genital contact, and there is a risk of the spread even while wearing condoms.

“We have noticed dwindling demand for the HPV vaccine amongst males within South Africa and we realised that this is probably due to little discussion about the virus, and how it affects both men and women,” she says.

Anyone wanting to book cervical cancer screening can call 086 111 7427, email clinicqueries@dischem.co.za or book via the Dis-Chem app. Alternatively, ask your Dis-Chem nursing practitioner for more information.

Issued on behalf of Dis-Chem by GGi Communications and photo by Pexels.