| No images? Click here Why You Should Keep
in Touch with Your Breasts #CANSAWomensHealth #BreastCancerAwareness #WomensHealth DONATE HERE YES – please touch them… YOUR breasts… Why? It’s very important that you know how your breasts feel to the touch, so that you will be able to detect any changes or a lump. Not all lumps indicate cancer, but they do need to be investigated… WARNING SIGNS Changes to note in your breast(s) include: lumpstexture changesthickeningdimplingchanges in shape or size of nippleschanges in size of breasts / one breast suddenly being slightly larger than the othertendernessdischargerashswellingThe underarm area should also be monitored for lumps… The Problem: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer in SA womenThere is a lifetime risk of 1 in 27 (National Cancer Registry 2019)In spite of knowing that BC is so common among women, too many women are still presenting with late-stage BC diagnosis – this is not necessary – early detection can save lives… The Solution: 1. Research has shown that a regular Breast Self-Examination (BSE), plays an important role in discovering breast cancer early, and compared to finding a breast lump by chance. So put it in your diary ladies – do a BSE once a month, preferably at the same time of day, following your menstrual cycle. Watch our BSE video and stick to this monthly regime… 2. While a regular BSE is extremely helpful, it is important to go for a more thorough investigation once a year. A Clinical Breast Examination (CBE) is a visual and manual examination of the entire breast, from the collarbone to the bra line, and from the armpit to the breast bone by a professional nurse or medical practitioner. CANSA offers Clinical Breast Examinations (CBE) at CANSA Care Centres to detect any irregularities and patients with medical aid benefits can claim from their medical aids once they have paid for the screening. Women are entitled to an annual clinical breast examination when visiting primary health care centres (according to the National Department of Health’s Breast Cancer Control Policy) 3. If any abnormality is detected during a CBE, you may be referred for a mammogram (a special x-ray to detect lumps in the breast). Women from the age of 40 should go for an annual mammogram, for purposes of non-symptomatic breast screening, just in case a CBE does not detect BC. Women 55 years and older, should have a mammogram every two years – or if they choose, continue with an annual mammogram. 4. Some people’s genetic family history, means they may 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 that normally produce proteins that protect one from cancer. 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. See CANSA Breast Cancer Position Statement . Where to get a Mammogram? Women can be screened at public hospital breast imaging units. Or alternately, the Radiological Society of SA (RSSA) website, can be accessed to see which practices offer breast imaging services and contacted for a booking. A doctor’s referral letter is not usually required for screening services. Any issues regarding bookings with a private practice, please contact admin@rssa.co.za for assistance. Video Inforgraphic What if BC Spreads?Living with Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) is a long-term diagnosis with many side effects and challenges daily. The limitations of this condition don’t always allow survivors to attend face-to-face support groups and so it’s important to offer something meaningful and helpful online. With the help of experts and MBC survivors patients, our existing iSurvivor email support programme was re-written with a focus on the needs of MBC patients. Patients who sign up receive weekly emails over 16 weeks helping to guide and support them to cope. Patients can also sign up for CANSA’s MBC WhatsApp support group run by a social worker who is a breast cancer survivor. To join, please mail info@cansa.org.za CANSA Support for BC PatientsCANSA offers a number of alternate support group options, online support resources, and free Tele Counselling in seven languages to cancer patients, caregivers and loved ones. An appointment can be made on 0800 22 66 22 or email counselling@cansa.org.za Extend the Reach of CANSA’s Women’s Health CampaignThose who would like to raise funds to support our Women’s Health educational campaign and help keep screening affordable, can support the events in October: Shop for CANSA by buying Pink products / other products or make use of services where CANSA benefits by getting a percentage of what you spend towards our Women’s Health campaign to educate women and provide affordable screening#GetYourPinkOn with the Vodocom Bulls when they take on the Cell C Sharks in PINK to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer (30 October 2022)Wear a ‘Doek with a Difference’ or a pair of earrings or wrap a tree as part of the Pink Trees for Pauline campaign – available at local CANSA Care Centres.Host or attend a Cuppa For CANSA event or CANSA SPAR Tea – contact Angelique de Witt adewitt@cansa.orgzaMake a donation via CANSA’s secure, online platforms. Stay in touch with your breast friends BUY Smart Choice Products CANSA Care Centres BUY Products to Support CANSA DONATE HERE DONATE VIA SNAPSCAN How Your Donation Helps Fight Cancer Leave a Bequest | 