Women urged not to let breast cancer fears delay a check
Health specialists are encouraging women to prioritize breast cancer screenings during Awareness Month to avoid late-stage diagnoses. Experts emphasize that early detection through mammograms allows for less invasive treatment options and better patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among South African women, and early intervention significantly increases survival rates.
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, with specialists urging women not to allow fear, myths or misinformation to delay medical assessment of breast changes.
Breast cancer affects an estimated one in 28 South African women and remains the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the country, accounting for about a quarter of new cancer diagnoses each year.
The Breast Imaging Society of South Africa (BISSA) says advances in screening and treatment have improved the outlook for many patients, making early assessment of possible symptoms an important part of care.
Dr Peter Schoub, who is the chair of BISSA, said delays in diagnosis and treatment can result in cancer being detected at a more advanced stage, potentially requiring more intensive treatment.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in