Survey shows need for more cancer testing among women
International Women’s Day focused on women’s health
Living in these unprecedented times, health and wellness are priorities for many people.
In commemoration of International Women’s Day on 8 March, Discovery Life recently published a study which revealed cancer is the most common illness suffered by South African women.
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Dr Maritha van der Walt, chief medical officer at Discovery Life, said the results were based on their clientele claims report.
These showed that 54% of the severe claims made by women were for cancer. Nervous system claims amounted to 15% and cardiovascular claims 7%.
‘This is tragic because many of the risk factors of cancer and cardiovascular conditions in women are preventable or manageable,’ said Dr van der Walt. ‘We need to do more to advocate for healthy behaviour, prevention and proactive screening.
’ Dr van der Walt encourages women to get tested to detect cancer in its early stages – particularly breast cancer which accounts for 46% of female cancers.
‘We would like everyone to prioritise this now, as early detection is the greatest factor in successfully treating and recovering from cancer,’ she said. ‘Early stages of breast cancer generally have a very good prognosis.
’ With the focus on women’s health, cancer-related deaths have been on the decline.
‘This shows us that preventative measures save lives. Screening and early detection are essential in this regard,’ Dr van der Walt concluded.
