Breast cancer: A little check can make a big difference
Breast cancer accounts for over 25% of cancer cases in South Africa. While it’s the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women, it can also occur in men.
Risk is higher in those who:
• Have a family history of breast cancer
• Are of Caucasian descent
• Are overweight
• Are physically inactive
• Follow a diet high in alcohol and processed foods
• Use tobacco
Early detection matters
If breast cancer is detected early, the survival rate is as high as 99%.
While there are medical screenings that can help detect breast cancer, regular self-examination will enable you to detect any changes that may require medical attention.
These include:
If you notice any unusual changes, consult a healthcare professional immediately.
How to conduct a routine self-examination
Step 1: With straightened shoulders and your hands on your hips, examine your breasts in front of a mirror, looking for any changes in size, colour or shape, or discharge.
Step 2: Lift your arms and repeat.
Step 3: Lying down with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head, use the three middle fingers of your left hand to press down gently, but firmly, on and around the entire right breast and armpit area. Repeat on the other side.
Step 4: Using the same principles as in step 3, examine your breasts while standing in the shower.
Observed in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to learn more about the condition and to begin performing regular self-examinations. By raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and supporting those affected by breast cancer, we can ensure earlier diagnoses, and save more lives.
References:
Risk is higher in those who:
• Have a family history of breast cancer
• Are of Caucasian descent
• Are overweight
• Are physically inactive
• Follow a diet high in alcohol and processed foods
• Use tobacco
Early detection matters
If breast cancer is detected early, the survival rate is as high as 99%.
While there are medical screenings that can help detect breast cancer, regular self-examination will enable you to detect any changes that may require medical attention.
These include:
- A lump or thickening in the breast
- Changes in breast size, shape or appearance
- Unexplained pain in the breast area
- Changes to the nipple, such as a discharge or inversion
- Skin changes, such as dimpling, redness or irritation
If you notice any unusual changes, consult a healthcare professional immediately.
How to conduct a routine self-examination
Step 1: With straightened shoulders and your hands on your hips, examine your breasts in front of a mirror, looking for any changes in size, colour or shape, or discharge.
Step 2: Lift your arms and repeat.
Step 3: Lying down with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head, use the three middle fingers of your left hand to press down gently, but firmly, on and around the entire right breast and armpit area. Repeat on the other side.
Step 4: Using the same principles as in step 3, examine your breasts while standing in the shower.
Observed in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a great time to learn more about the condition and to begin performing regular self-examinations. By raising awareness, sharing knowledge, and supporting those affected by breast cancer, we can ensure earlier diagnoses, and save more lives.
References:
- https://cansa.org.za-files-2025-07-CANSA-Fact-Sheet-on-the-Top-Ten-Cancers-per-Population-Group-updated-June-2025.pdf
- https://www.statssa.gov.za-publications-03-08-00-03-08-002023.pdf
- https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org-early-detection-of-breast-cancer
- http://nationalbreastcancer.org-breast-self-exam