Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Early detection and collaboration save lives

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this year South Africa’s theme, “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone”, reminds us that early detection, support, and collaboration save lives.

In the Western Cape, about 1 500 new breast cancer cases are diagnosed annually, with primary health care being a critical first step. The prevalence of breast cancer is increasing in South Africa (and worldwide); women are diagnosed with more advanced breast cancer and have lower survival rates. Therefore, women need to be diligent about their breast health and seek help early. Clinics play a crucial role in assessing and identifying warning signs and facilitating prompt referrals to sites for definitive diagnosis and further management.

Teams of professionals, including nurses, clerks, physiotherapists, genetic services, dietitians, radiographers, doctors, psychologists, social workers, and support staff, alongside community partners such as Reach for Recovery, Project Flamingo, and Pink Lady Apples (at Tygerberg Hospital), lead the fight against breast cancer and assist patients throughout their breast cancer journey.

Breast cancer is not just one disease, and every breast cancer patient needs to be treated individually, taking into consideration their physiology and the cancer characteristics. To achieve this, every patient is discussed at weekly virtual multidisciplinary meetings across the service ecosystem (hosted by Tygerberg Hospital and Groote Schuur Hospital), which bring together surgeons, oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, genetic counsellors, and doctors from regional hospitals.

This provincial ecosystem approach to person-centred care, led by our healthcare teams, ensures that every patient’s treatment plan is tailor-made. As there are many types of breast cancer, different management approaches are needed. Most patients will need breast surgery, while some, but not all, require chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and/or endocrine treatment.

Early detection improves survival, so speak out about breast cancer, don’t fear what might be found, make time for breast self-examination, and seek help early. Look after your body; it has to carry you throughout your life.

“Early detection and treatment are the cornerstones of effective breast cancer care,” says Dr Sharon Čačala, Head of Breast and Endocrine Surgery at Tygerberg Hospital. Partnerships between primary care and hospital services help us identify patients sooner, personalise treatment, and improve survival rates. Multidisciplinary teamwork ensures no patient falls through the cracks.”

A Story of Strength: Ms Kulsum Abrahams

Ms Kulsum Abrahams (63) from Parow has been in remission for 10 years. In 2014, she experienced pain in her left breast; tests at Tygerberg Hospital confirmed cancer. She underwent surgery and chemotherapy, enduring hair loss, fatigue, and painful side effects.

Today, Ms Abrahams volunteers with Reach for Recovery, counselling other patients. She advises: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Know your body. Do self-exams regularly. Live a healthy lifestyle.”

She praises Tygerberg staff: “They are wonderful; you can ask them anything, and they’re always ready to assist.”

Where to Seek Help

Women who notice lumps or changes in their breasts should visit their nearest primary health care clinic or community health centre for free clinical screenings and referrals to higher levels of care.

Additional support:

• Reach for Recovery (SA) – counselling and peer support
• Project Flamingo – screenings and awareness
• National Cancer Helpline – 0800 22 66 22 or https://cansa.org.za

Early action saves lives. Don’t wait, check today.