– by Nkosingiphile Ntshangase
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month; the purpose of this campaign is to increase visibility and awareness for the disease. People of today lead busy lives, and something as precious as their health, cannot be taken for granted. The theme for this year is ‘Give hope. Save lives’, as due to modern medicine breast cancer is no longer a death sentence. We do however still need to stay vigilant of the changes in our bodies. Breast cancer awareness month is a reminder to take care of your health and consistently check your body for any changes out of the norm. Investigating ailments in their early stages can give you piece of mind and possibly save your life. Breast cancer is most treatable if found in its early stages and every person with breasts needs to know how to perform a breast examination on themselves and know the symptoms.
There are various signs to look out for in the early stages of breast cancer such as an unusual lump in the breast or armpit; discharge from the nipple; dimpling of the skin around the breast or retraction of the nipple. Even if you don’t experience any of these changes you should still go for your routine medical check-ups just to be sure. Both men are women are vulnerable to this type of cancer however, according to the 2016 National Cancer Registry, more women are at a higher risk with a lifetime risk of 1 in 25. Women tend to put others before themselves and this month is to remind them to prioritise their health, well-being, and lead a balanced lifestyle. COVID-19 has also highlighted the significance of health and mindfulness in our daily lives, as well as how to deal with the pressures that have come with the pandemic. In the midst of it all, cancer risk remains, therefore the need for people to be empowered through knowledge is constant.
People often assume breast cancer will not happen to them until it does, so this month serves as a reminder to be mindful of our choices and actions. Supporting the next person perpetuates the ideal of every life being accounted for and making sure everyone has access to information or resources.
To watch CANSA’s ‘Steps: How To Do a Breast Self-Examination’ video, please click here.
How can you get involved in Breast Cancer Awareness 2020?
There are various ways to get involved while maintaining social distancing, whether you’re a survivor or want to support a good cause:
- Research organisations that help breast cancer survivors by clicking here.
- Donate to and support initiatives by organisations such as the Pink Drive, Breast Health Foundation and CANSA.
- Volunteer at breast cancer charities in South Africa.
- Talk about breast cancer, breast examinations and family health history to your friends or spread awareness on your social media.
“You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.”
– Eleanor Roosevelt
