During Breast Health Awareness Month (October), the Radiological Society of South Africa (RSSA) and Breast Imaging Society of South Africa (BISSA a sub group of the RSSA) are stressing the importance of mammograms and how regular mammograms and breast examination can possibly save your life.
The importance of early detection of breast cancer cannot be emphasised enough in a bid to optimise treatment and hopefully avoid the need for invasive treatments.
“Early diagnosis gives the cancer patient a higher chance of complete cure and less extensive surgery,” said dr Sheldon Godinho, president of RSSA.
“We encourage all women to start regular mammography from the age of 40, regardless of whether they have symptoms or have an abnormality; early detection is the key objective.”
“We also encourage all women to regularly check their breasts for any irregularities and have a clinical breast examination by a GP or gynaecologist at least once a year.”
The RSSA recommends that women aged 40 or older should have a mammogram every one to two years.
Women between 50 and 75 should have annual mammography. Women at high risk, usually due to a history of breast cancer in a close family relative, should have annual mammograms starting at an age five years before the age their family member was diagnosed with breast cancer.
All participating members of the RSSA are offering a 10 per cent discount on mammograms and breast MRI, not paid for by medical aid schemes, during the month of October and first half of November. Terms and conditions apply.
