Early detection of breast cancer improves survival and quality of life

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women.

Survival rates, however, have improved significantly over the years as an increasing number of women are screened, resulting in early detection and early treatment.

Advancements in breast cancer research, available newer treatment options and early detection assist with increased survival and improved quality of life for patients.

Breast cancer is a complex disease with many subtypes, which present differently.

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Therefore, a unique treatment approach for each breast cancer type and patient is necessary.

A breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and daunting for patients and their loved ones when survival or the loss of a breast is often the automatic first thought that comes to mind for many.

“Gone are the days when a breast cancer diagnosis automatically results in losing a breast. Many tumours can now be removed by lumpectomy, which involves the removal of only the tumour and a small area of the surrounding normal breast tissue.

“This procedure is generally followed by radiation. If cancer affects a large area of the breast, a mastectomy (removing all the breast tissue as well as some of the surrounding tissue) may be warranted. Breast reconstruction can sometimes be performed at the same time as the mastectomy,” says breast surgeon Dr Lucienne van Schalkwyk at Life The Glynnwood.

Van Schalkwyk is a strong advocate in a holistic treatment plan that includes the services of a multidisciplinary team consisting of a surgeon, reconstructive surgeon, radiologist, oncologist, counselling services and pathology services.

The multidisciplinary team will review a patient’s diagnosis to formulate a treatment plan that meets international guidelines.

This entails consideration of the tumour (type, stage, biological profile) as well as the patient (age, chronic diseases, preferences) and together formulate a treatment plan that best meets the needs of each patient.

While 10% of breast cancer is genetic, there are many factors associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. These include:
• Being female
• Age – risks increase with age
• History of breast conditions
• History of breast cancer – having cancer in one breast increases the chances of developing cancer in the other
• Exposure to radiation
• Obesity
• Beginning your menstrual period at an age younger than 12 years
• Beginning menopause at an age older than 45 years
• Having your first child after the age of 30
• Not being pregnant
• Postmenopausal hormone treatment
• Drinking alcohol

Getting regular screening tests is the most reliable way to detect breast cancer in its early stages.

Screening, such as annual mammograms for women 40 years and older, as well as monthly breast self-examinations, means that an early diagnosis allows for treatment to be started earlier in the course of the disease, possibly before it has spread.

“Many women have been unable to have their mammograms due to Covid-19. We have seen a definite decrease in mammograms performed and in the number of newly diagnosed breast cancers,” adds van Schalkwyk.

“The concern is that these cancers are detected at a more advanced stage, once women feel comfortable to have their mammograms again. I urge women to take care of their health and schedule their mammograms.

“Being a woman, I can share the experience with my patients, knowing that our breasts are intimately connected to who we are, our self-esteem, body image and motherhood.

“Losing a breast can be as traumatic as the loss of a limb, and may cause depression, anxiety and influence interpersonal relationships with spouses,” adds van Schalkwyk, who not only advocates for patients to get emotional support but also works closely with Life The Glynnwood’s reconstructive surgeons, affording patients the option of reconstructive surgery.

Discussions are essential around the benefits as well as risk factors of breast reconstruction, which can take place at the same time as breast surgery.

The goal is to combine safe cancer surgery with a good cosmetic outcome.