October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October officially marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

And so marks the start of countless campaigns to encourage women to check if they have lumps in their breasts.

According to the 2007 South African Cancer Registry, one in 35 women in South Africa will be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Breast cancer, like other types of cancers, is treatable when detected early.

The Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa), which is a non-profit organisation, says one can reduce the risks through regular examinations.

They further state that many breast lumps are harmless but they should be checked.

Women should do monthly breast self-examinations and go for regular clinical breast examinations.

And if you are a symptom free women and 40 years or older you should go for regular mammogram, which is a special X-ray to detect lumps in the breasts, every year.

How do you know if you have cancer symptoms?

According to Cansa, besides the common lump, other symptoms of breast cancer include:

*Swelling of all or part of the breast

*Skin irritation

*Breast pain

*Nipple pain or nipple turning inward

*Redness or thickening of the nipple or breast

*A nipple discharge other than milk

*A lump in the underarm

It’s important that even though you may suspect you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, that you visit your doctor and get yourself tested.

You can also visit a Cansa organisation, their purpose is to lead the fight against cancer in South Africa.

The organisation conducts research, educates the public and provides support to all people affected by cancer.

For more information about Cansa visit www.cansa.org.za.

The Cansa East Rand offices can be contacted on 087 940 8097.