Breast Cancer Month--South Africa
Each year, breast cancer causes more fatalities among women in South Africa than any other type of cancer. Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held annually across the country, attempts to tackle the disturbing issue of a high breast cancer rate within this diverse country by means of a multipronged national campaign.
The Purpose
The month of October was designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month in South Africa primarily in order to raise awareness of the disease. This is done in both the private and public health sectors. The South African Department of Health hosts campaigns across the country and especially in rural areas to promote awareness of the disease and spreading the knowledge of achieve early detection through regular self-examinations and mammograms.
The Problem
South Africa faces high breast cancer rates in its racially mixed population. Among white and Asian women, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, while among black women it is the second most common. One in 26 South African women is diagnosed with breast cancer each year, a significant number that translates to thousands of cases annually. Most terminal cases occur among black women, the majority of whom seek medical help after the disease has developed into its late stages.
Early Detection
Although breast cancer can certainly be fatal and must be treated as a deadly disease, early detection significantly raises the chances of defeating the disease by allowing for more treatment options. Over 90 percent of breast cancer patients who have discovered the disease in its early stages have survived for many years after the diagnosis. The National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations has stated that annual mammogram screenings and breast examinations by professionals are the best methods in achieving early detection.
Self Examination
The South African Breast Cancer Awareness encourages all women in the country to examine their own breasts monthly. The best time to check for lumps, swellings, sores or rashes is the week after the woman's period. While most lumps found turn out to be harmless, all require attention in case it is cancer. The next step is a mammogram.
Mammography in South Africa
The President of South Africa's Radiological Society reported that mammography equipment in public hospitals across the country needed attention. While citizens able to afford mammograms through the private medical sector have high detection rates and less fatal cases, the opposite is true and access is limited for lower classes. By raising familiarity with these issues, Breast Cancer Awareness Month hopes to increase accessibility to mammograms for all South African women.
Tags: South Africa, Breast Cancer Awareness, Cancer Awareness, South African, across country, Awareness Month
