Breast Cancer Awareness Month: A Comprehensive Guide to Early Detection

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held every October, is a global campaign aimed at increasing awareness about breast cancer, promoting early detection and encouraging people to take action to protect their breast health. Early detection of breast cancer is crucial in improving survival rates and ensuring better outcomes for patients. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can protect yourself and loved ones through awareness and proactive health measures.

At Lenmed, we understand that breast cancer can be a daunting topic. As an expert medical partner, we are here to support you every step of the way. All Lenmed hospitals offer specialised medical services, such as breast surgery, while Lenmed Ahmed Kathrada Private Hospital, Lenmed Ethekwini Hospital and Heart Centre and Lenmed Royal Hospital and Heart Centre offer chemotherapy to patients with breast cancer. Our recently established Breast Cancer Centre at the Lenmed Ahmed Kathrada Private Hospital offers comprehensive care tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring patient-centred care is at the heart of everything we do.

Table of Contents

• Understanding Breast Cancer Awareness
• Early Detection of Breast Cancer
• Recognising Breast Cancer Symptoms
• Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
• Breast Cancer Prevention
• Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer
• Maintaining Breast Health
• Conclusion

Understanding Breast Cancer Awareness

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women globally. Breast Cancer Awareness campaigns seek to spread knowledge about the disease, the importance of early detection and how lifestyle changes can help lower risk factors. Raising awareness is not just about educating people on breast cancer symptoms, but also about promoting regular breast cancer screening and self-examinations. By taking an active role in breast cancer awareness, individuals are better equipped to make informed decisions about their health and detect any potential issues early on. Early detection of breast cancer is key to improving treatment success rates and ultimately saving lives. 

Early Detection of Breast Cancer

Early detection is one of the most effective ways to fight breast cancer. The sooner breast cancer is detected, the more treatment options are available and the better the chances of a successful outcome. There are several methods for early detection, each playing an important role in monitoring breast health.

Mammogram guidelines

A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray used to detect abnormalities in the breast. It is one of the most reliable methods for screening and detecting breast cancer early, often before symptoms develop. According to mammogram guidelines, women aged 40 and above should have a mammogram every one to two years. However, women with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may need to begin screening earlier. Speak to your healthcare provider to determine the right mammogram schedule for you. 

Breast self-exam

Regular breast self-exams allow individuals to become familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts, helping them to notice any changes early on. It is recommended to perform a breast self-exam once a month. While self-exams are not a substitute for professional screening, they can alert you to potential signs of breast cancer, such as lumps, changes in size or unusual discharge. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly.

Breast cancer screening

In addition to mammograms and self-exams, there are other breast cancer screening methods available, such as clinical breast exams performed by healthcare providers. Regular screening can help identify any issues at an early stage, even before symptoms arise.

Recognising Breast Cancer Symptoms

While regular screening is vital, it’s equally important to be aware of breast cancer symptoms. Breast cancer can present itself in various ways, so recognising the signs of breast cancer is critical to getting an early diagnosis. Some of the most common symptoms include: 

• A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm 
• Changes in the size, shape or appearance of the breast 
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin 
• Inverted nipples or changes in the nipple’s appearance 
• Unexplained discharge from the nipple 
• Redness, scaliness or thickening of the breast skin or nipple

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider immediately. Keep in mind that these signs do not always indicate cancer, but they do warrant a closer examination by a professional.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer affects women across all age groups, but some individuals may be at higher risk. Understanding the risk factors for breast cancer can help you take preventive measures or seek early detection. 

Family history

Women with close relatives who have had breast cancer are at greater risk of developing the disease themselves – this is especially true if the relative was diagnosed at a young age. 

Genetic mutations

Certain inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer. Genetic testing for breast cancer can determine if you carry these mutations, allowing for earlier and more tailored preventive measures. 

Age

The risk of breast cancer increases as you age, with most cases diagnosed in women over 50.

Hormonal factors

Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55) and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can all contribute to an increased risk of breast cancer. 

Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle choices such as alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity and obesity can increase your risk. Adopting healthier habits can help reduce this risk and contribute to overall well-being.

Diet

Although still being researched, it is believed that highly processed food could be a risk factor. As such, more natural and less industrialised products are better for us. Some specialists suggest a “Mediterranean diet”, which includes fresh produce, whole grains, seafood and nuts. 

Pollution

Air pollution and certain chemicals and toxins from our environment have been linked to the development of breast cancer. For example, a large number of plastic components enter our food and water, which are then absorbed by the body and mimic the function of hormones. Known as the endocrine disruptive effect, it can have many other biological consequences along with breast cancer. Additionally, many household chemicals have not been tested for their safety. American studies have also pointed to concerns about hair straighteners and dyes.

Breast Cancer Prevention

While some risk factors, such as age and genetics, are beyond our control, there are several ways to lower your risk through breast cancer prevention strategies. 

• Maintain a healthy weight

Obesity is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly after menopause. Keeping a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help reduce your risk. 

• Limit alcohol intake

Studies have shown that drinking alcohol raises the risk of breast cancer. Limiting alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day can help reduce this risk. 

• Stay active

Regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. 

• Avoid hormone therapy

Long-term use of HRT has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Speak to your healthcare provider about alternative options for managing menopause symptoms. 

• Breastfeed if possible

Breastfeeding may reduce the risk of breast cancer, particularly in women who breastfeed for longer durations. 

Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer or are concerned about inherited genetic mutations, genetic testing for breast cancer can provide valuable insight. This test looks for mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, which significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Knowing your genetic risk can guide you and your healthcare provider in creating a personalised prevention or monitoring plan. 

Maintaining Breast Health

Taking charge of your breast health involves regular check-ups, screenings and adopting healthy lifestyle habits. It is essential to stay proactive by performing breast self-exams, keeping up with mammogram guidelines and paying attention to any changes in your body. Breast cancer is most treatable when detected early, so staying vigilant is key. At Lenmed, we are committed to supporting women on their journey towards maintaining optimal breast health.

Our new Breast Cancer Centre at the Lenmed Ahmed Kathrada Private Hospital offers a comprehensive range of services, from screening and diagnostic tools to personalised treatment plans. We strive to ensure every patient receives the highest standard of care, with our expert team by their side every step of the way.

Conclusion

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time for education, awareness and action. Early detection of breast cancer can make all the difference in treatment success and outcomes. By following mammogram guidelines, staying informed about breast cancer symptoms and performing regular breast self-exams, you are taking crucial steps towards protecting your health.

We are proud to offer expert care at our Breast Cancer Centre at Lenmed Ahmed Kathrada Private Hospital, where patient-centred care is our number one priority, ensuring each individual receives compassionate support and world-class medical expertise. Taking charge of your breast health and spreading awareness can all contribute to the fight against breast cancer and save lives.

Remember, breast cancer screening saves lives. Stay vigilant, stay informed and prioritise your breast health today.

For more information, please contact:

Prof H Cubasch
Discipline: Breast Surgeon
Hospital: Ahmed Kathrada Private Hospital
Telephone: 087 087 8616 / 011 484 7376