The first thing you should know is that both men and women can suffer from breast cancer. It is the most common cancer diagnosed in white and coloured women in South Africa, and the second most common in black women. Breast cancer can be frightening, but there is good news. Firstly, breast cancer is not always fatal. There has been a substantial increase into funding for research. As a result, survival rates have not only increased, but are doing so steadily. The increase in research has led to diagnostic advances, earlier detection, and a better understanding of breast cancer.

What is breast cancer, exactly?

Very simply, it is cancer, also known as a malignancy, formed by an abnormal and uncontrolled growth and multiplication of cells in the breast. These cells divide more rapidly than healthy cells. In other words they grow more quickly. As they grow, they form a lump or mass. Cells may spread – metastasize – through your breast to your lymph nodes or to other parts of your body. Which is why early detection is paramount. Survival rates are higher after an early diagnosis, it is important to check your breasts regularly and know what you are looking for.

For a more in-depth explanation of breast cancer, we have an article dedicated to understanding breast cancer.

What signs or symptoms should I look for?

If, during your regular examination of your breasts, you find any of these symptoms, please contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Breast:

• A breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue
• A change in the size, shape or appearance of your breast
• Changes to the skin over your breast, such as dimpling
• Redness or pitting of the skin over your breast, like the skin of an orange

Nipple:

• A newly inverted nipple
• Peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking of the pigmented area of skin surrounding the nipple (areola) or breast skin
• Here are some of the factors that could be a factor in developing breast cancer. Please don’t be alarmed – you may have all these factors present in your life and never develop the disease.
• Being female.
• Increasing age.
• A personal history of breast conditions.
• A personal history of breast cancer.
• Radiation exposure.
• Obesity.
• Beginning your period younger than 12 years old.
• Beginning menopause at an older age.
• Having your first child any time after 30 years of age.
• Having never been pregnant.
• Postmenopausal hormone therapy. The risk of breast cancer decreases when women stop taking these medications.
• Drinking alcohol.

Can I do anything to reduce my chances of getting breast cancer?

Yes! The most important thing is doing regular self-examinations of your breasts.

This won’t prevent breast cancer, but it will help you understand the normal changes your breasts go through and help you identify any unusual signs and symptoms as soon as possible.

Ask your doctor about breast cancer screening.

Breast cancer screening exams and tests, such as clinical breast exams and mammograms should never be neglected. Together, you and your doctor can decide which strategies are best for you. The rule of thumb is to have a mammogram once you reach 35 years of age and then one every 5 years after that.

Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all.

If you do drink, limit the amount of alcohol to no more than one a day.

Exercise 5 – 6 days of the week, choose a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight.

Thirty minutes of brisk exercise on most days of the week keep you healthy and fit. It also helps keep your weight down and excess weight can cause problems. Remember that the number of calories expended in exercise must be more than the number of calories consumed. The Mediterranean diet, supplemented with extra-virgin olive oil and mixed nuts, may reduce the risk of breast cancer as it focuses mostly on plant-based foods – fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts, olive oil over butter, and fish instead of red meat.

Limit postmenopausal hormone therapy.

You may suffer from symptoms of menopause which make taking HRT necessary. Make sure your doctor has explained both the risks and benefits of HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) as combination drugs may increase the risk of breast cancer.

While this is a frightening subject, remember – knowledge is power.

If you have any concerns whatsoever about the health of your breasts, whether you are a man or a woman, please do not hesitate to contact your nearest Lenmed Hospital and make an appointment with our healthcare professionals today.

The lenmed Group is a world-class chain of Private Hospitals that brings quality healthcare to communities across Southern Africa.

For more information please contact:

Dr PWJ Reyneke (General Surgeon)
MMed (Chir) Pret (1985), LKC (SA) (1985), MB CHB PRET (1977)
Royal Hospital and Heart Centre
Tel:+27 (0) 53 045 0464
Email: [email protected]

Disclaimer: Any information contained here is merely a guideline. Always visit your healthcare practitioner for any health-related advice or diagnosis.