Early diagnosis of breast cancer is crucial

With the focus on breast cancer awareness during the month of October, huge emphasis is being placed on educating women about the prevention, early detection and management of breast cancer, a disease that now affects 1 in 29 women in their lifetime according to the Radiological Society of South Africa (RSSA).

"The simple fact remains that breast cancer kills more women than any other cancer in the world and one in ten of all new cancer cases diagnosed annually across the globe is breast cancer. And while the thought of contracting the disease scares even the bravest of women, there is much that can be done from a lifestyle point of view to significantly lower your risks. Furthermore, paying attention to your body' cues and having regular medical check-ups to ensure early detection and treatment are pivotal in treating the disease and even having a full recovery," says Dr Clive Sperryn, President of the Radiological Society of South Africa (RSSA).

Some signs

Breast cancer is a malignant tumour that starts from the cells of the breast with most breast cancers forming in the cells that line the ducts. There are a number of factors that contribute to the formation of breast cancer, many of which are lifestyle related, as well as age and heredity factors. Changes in DNA, smoking, excessive alcohol intake and diets high in saturated fat play a major role.

Symptoms of breast cancer include a new lump or mass. A lump that is painless, hard and has uneven edges is more likely to be cancer. However some cancers are tender, soft and rounded. Other signs of breast cancer include, swelling, skin irritation, pain, nipple pain or a nipple turning inward, redness, scaliness or thickening of the nipple or breast skin, discharge (other than milk), or a lump in the underarm area.

"Radiologists are trained to detect breast cancer before any of these signs manifest. The mammogram is the first weapon in your artillery against breast cancer. Ultrasound is used as an additional measure to assess abnormalities detected on mammography or to give additional information in women who have dense breast tissue. Women with a higher risk, (family history of breast cancer or carriers of the rare breast cancer gene) should in addition to mammography consider annual breast MRI studies, the 'Gold Standard' in breast imaging, which is three times more accurate in the diagnosis of early breast cancer," explains Dr Sperryn.

The facts:

• Breast cancer is 100 times more common in women than in men.
  
• Female breast cancer incidence rates have increased by around 50%
  over the last 25 years.
  
• Eight in ten breast cancers are diagnosed in women aged 50 and over.
  
• One alcoholic drink per day could increase breast cancer risk by around 12%.
  
• In 2010, 1.5 million people worldwide will be told they have breast cancer.

Dr Sperryn places heavy emphasis on early diagnosis of breast cancer. "The frightening reality is that one in every 29 South African women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. In 'Westernised' communities the incidence increases to one in eight and if you have a close relative who had breast cancer your risk increases to a staggering one in every six. Early diagnosis substantially increases the chance for a complete cure with less invasive surgery required."

YOU must take charge

"The onus lies with every woman out there to know your body. Do your monthly self-examination and if you are over the age of 40, you should have an annual mammogram as well as an annual clinical breast examination by a healthcare professional. If you have a history of breast cancer in your family, your risk is much higher and therefore must have an annual mammogram and in certain high risk cases, breast MRI is the appropriate study." says Dr Sperryn.

In support of Breast Health Awareness Month, all participating members of the RSSA are offering a 10% discount on mammograms and breast MRIs during the month of October and first half of November (terms and conditions apply). You can contact the RSSA on +27 (0) 11 794 4395, visit www.rssa.co.za or e-mail moc.acirfai@cosdar for a list of participating members.

"Get to know your body and make breast cancer awareness part of your lifestyle, it could just save your life," concludes Dr Sperryn.