Protect yourself from breast cancer
Breast Cancer is one of the most common cancers in women in South Africa, with one in 33 women diagnosed. Find out more about who is at risk and how to protect yourself here.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), women are 100 times more likely to develop breast cancer than men.
The risk of breast cancer increases as you get older – with most advanced breast cancer cases found in women over the age of 50.
There is also a much higher risk of getting breast cancer if there is a family history of the disease, while some people have genes which make them more predisposed to getting breast cancer.
CANSA has these tips for women to reduce the risk of cancer:
- Know your family history of breast cancer
- Eat smart and healthily: be cancer smart when choosing, preparing and enjoying food. Avoid processed foods and include lots of fresh vegetables and fruits in your diet
- Exercise and manage stress: live a balanced, active lifestyle. Exercise is essential for building immunity and strength. If you’re fit, managing your day to day responsibilities will be less stressful.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco: limit the use of alcohol or avoid it completely and avoid the use of tobacco products
- Do monthly breast examinations: go for regular clinical breast examinations. Symptom-free women should go for a mammogram at least every three years from age 35.
- Go for regular Pap smears (screening test for early diagnosis of cervical cancer), at least every three years from age 25.
- Encourage your mother, daughter, sister and female friends to do the same.
*The Pink Drive is hosting a Mad Hatter High Coffee between 3pm and 5pm at The Protea Hotel Umhlanga Ridge today. Cancer survivor Janice Benecke will share her story. Seats cost R250 and proceeds go to The Pink Drive.
