During the month of October, which is designated as Breast Cancer Awareness month, we are reminded of the courageous women and men who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and also honor those who have lost the battle against the debilitating disease.
The incidence of breast cancer among South African women is increasing and is one of the most common cancers among women in SA.
With a lifetime risk of 1 in 27, the risk of breast cancer increases with age. Those who have immediate family members diagnosed with breast cancer may be at higher risk and may develop cancer at a younger age. Breast cancer affects people across different genders, races and social statuses.
As alarming as this is, breast cancer treatment can be highly effective particularly when the disease is identified early, leading to a favorable prognosis. Regular self-breast examination and regular mammograms are the key to early detection
With our 3D digital breast tomosynthesis unit, we at Vaal Radiology Inc. can detect small cancers and masses hidden in dense breast tissue much early than standard 2D mammography.
Those who undergo regular breast screening are diagnosed earlier with less advanced cancer and small tumors, undergo less aggressive treatment and have a lower risk of dying from the cancer.
Regular screening is more likely to find breast cancers when they are small and localized to a smaller area of the breast. This is important for successful treatment and survival, since the size and extent of the tumor and spread are crucial in predicting the outcome of a breast cancer diagnosis. We encourage women over the age of 40 to have a yearly routine mammogram as early detection with early treatment may result in more effective treatment, leading to a reduction in pain and suffering and a significant decrease in the loss of life. Take control and beat breast cancer on your own terms.
From Left: Anel Pretorius, Samantha
Mvubu, Crystal Ross, Amanda Mokoena
and Dr AB Mehtar
Contact us at Mediclinic Vereeniging Hospital (016 430 4300) and Midvaal Private Hospital (016 430 4330) to make your booking today.
