October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Here are ten tips every woman should know for better breast health, as recommended by Dr Carol-Ann Benn, a leading expert in breast cancer and head of the Breast Care Centre in Johannesburg.
-
Seventy percent of all women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors, so don’t be complacent.
-
No woman is entirely safe from breast cancer, but you can lower your risk by making sensible lifestyle changes - exercise, eat healthily, don’t smoke and lower your alcohol intake.
-
Keep a close eye on your bra - it doesn’t just enhance your silhouette, it helps support your breasts.
-
Examine your breasts at least once a month and if you are over 40, go for an annual mammogram, sonar and clinical examinations.
-
You are exposed to more radiation from a shopping mall than you are from a mammogram.
-
The general practitioner or GP is the first port of call for a patient. But the diagnosis of a breast problem should be made by a specialist radiologist in a radiology suite.
-
Breast cancer does not require emergency treatment. If diagnosed, take your time to investigate your options and fully understand your situation. Genetic sampling can assist to better target therapies.
-
A multi-disciplinary care centre management approach to breast cancer is recommended. Seek advice and treatment options from a team of specialists.
-
A woman can now get excellent breast cancer treatment from the public health care system without assistance from a medical scheme. The Helen Joseph Breast Care Clinic is a leading example.
-
Breast reconstruction can be performed at the time of cancer surgery. It is usually a minimum benefit on most medical aids – and it’s safe.
(Novatis Oncology press release)
- (Health24, October 2011)
Read more:
Video: how to do a breast self exam
Nipple changes and discharges
Love yourself, love your locks, be aware