Do not ignore signs of cancer, urges doctor

As cancer statistics rise, awareness of the signs are more important than ever.

“Cancer in women is prevalent, accounting for 80% of the cancer patients we, as Hospice, care for,” said Zululand Hospice Association (ZHA) GM Christine Samuel.

“The sad thing about this is that most of these cancers can be treated with success if detected early and treatment begins soon after diagnosis.”

In light of National Hospice Week, observed from 4 to 9 May, ZHA hosted a ladies’ morning tea last Saturday.

Dr Nompumelelo Ntshangase spoke about cancer in women, encouraging awareness and seeking help.

Dr Ntshangase is a gynaecologist at the KZN Department of Health and founder of the Excellence Health Foundation NPO.

She authored the cervical cancer screening chapter in the 2022/23 District Health Barometer and is passionate about cancer prevention.

“We need to make sure we take care of ourselves because our children need us,” said Dr Ntshangase.

“We cannot come up with a spare body. I saw a runner who was running topless because she’d had a mastectomy – showing it’s okay to not have breasts. I know I would rather be breastless and alive for my kids.”

She reminded women to know their family history as cancer is genetic.

“With most cancers, it will be your first-degree relative. This means, if it’s your great-grandmother who had ovarian cancer, you are not as much at risk of that cancer versus if your sister has cancer.

“There are so many types of cancer that can occur in women,” she said, listing breast, cervical, uterine, ovarian and vulvar cancer.

Self-examination

Breast cancer symptoms include new lumps and she recommend monthly self-examination.

“Lift one arm, press around the breast and underarm. Also, from age 40, have annual mammograms.

“Cervical cancer is caused by HPV, a sexually transmitted infection. Watch for postmenopausal bleeding, abnormal discharge, or a funny smell.”

Postmenopausal bleeding is also a sign of uterine cancer and she urged, “If you see a blood, rush to the doctor.”

Loss of appetite is a sign of ovarian cancer.

Dr Nompumelelo also said lifestyle modification plays a major role, and that medically speaking, one glass of wine a day is good for you.

“But if you missed your glass during the week, don’t try catch it all up in one day!

“Cancer is not a death sentence. There are cancers we can cure. If you come early, we can cut it out. There’s chemo and radiation.”

However, Dr Ntshangase says, when nothing more can be done, it doesn’t mean you will be discarded.

“Then, we will call palliative care and help with pain management and emotional care.

“Don’t sit with something alone. I had a patient who died without her family knowing she had cancer. There’s always someone who cares, even if it’s only God.”

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