October welcomes breast cancer awareness month and the 2024 theme is ‘no one should face breast cancer alone,’ Cape {town} Etc reports.
Also read: Lace up for breast cancer with Freestyle
In South Africa, 1 out of 27 women will be victim to a positive breast cancer diagnosis.
Breast and cervical cancer have further been identified as a national priority as positive diagnoses continue to rise.
Globally, breast cancer is also one of the most common forms of cancer.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation reports that in 2024 alone, more than 360,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer. However, if detected in its early / localised stages, chances of survival are high.
The City as such, reminds women (and men) to get regular breast examinations.
City Health further encourages patients and their loved ones to prioritise mental well-being while treatment is ongoing.
Both women and men are encouraged to complete regular self-examinations and seek professional opinions if they notice symptoms such as a new lump/growth, swelling of all or part of the breast, breast pain, skin irritation and nipple pain.
Other symptoms to lookout for include redness, scaliness around the nipple or skin of the breast, a nipple discharge (excluding breast milk) and a lump in the underarm area.
When commenting on the potentially fatal diagnosis, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross, stated that a lot of the focus upon diagnosis, tends to be on physical effects and treatment while minimal thought is given to the mental impact of a positive diagnosis.
‘I want to encourage persons living with breast cancer to find and exploit support networks, whether these are support groups, family members, friends or even your church. City Health too offers mental health services so speak to your local clinic to find out what options are available and could work for you’ said Van der Ross.
It has further been reported that cancer patients who struggle with mental health issues are less likely to comply with treatment regulations, experience extended hospitalisation and have a reduced quality of life overall.
The family members and loved ones of a patient are also encouraged to seek counselling or therapy.
Also read:
5 Things to know about mammograms for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Picture: Noam Galai / Gallo Images
