Mental health and breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in South Africa.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) explores the impact mental health has on the disease.

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“Getting a cancer diagnosis is tough.

“It’s not just about the body it’s about the mind too.

“It affects you and your family’s mental health.

“Although breast cancer doesn’t directly cause depression, it can affect your emotions as you deal with diagnosis and treatment,” said Cansa services manager for psychosocial support Gretchen Minnaar.

She also explained that some women may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) owing to the diagnosis. Treatment can also affect a patient’s mental health.

“Chemotherapy may bring sudden personality changes, often called ‘chemo rage’, linked to steroids used in treatment, or ‘chemo brain’ resulting in a diminished capacity to concentrate and remember things, making it difficult to continue with work or everyday life.

“The loss of a breast or complications from surgery, for example lymphedema, can be debilitating and affect your self-image.

“If your worry becomes too much or you are experiencing mood swings, it’s important to seek emotional support,” she said.

Seeking adequate medical assistance during the life-changing journey can also result in added stress as there is much paperwork, even for people with medical aid.

Patients are advised to learn about their service provider’s oncology benefits.

Women should prioritise going for regular check-ups and screening.

“Screening is essential, especially for women.

“It helps catch cancer early when it’s easier to treat.

“We know early detection is key to enabling effective treatment and a better chance of recovering from cancer.

“It’s also important to know what screening options are available to you, especially if you have a family history of cancer,” concluded Minnaar.

Types of screening

• Clinical breast examinations: It’s a check to detect any signs of breast cancer early

• Mammograms: Super detailed breast pictures. Women can be screened at public hospital breast clinics if they have a referral letter from a medical professional or Cansa nurse.
Alternately, contact the Radiological Society of SA (RSSA) www.rssa.co.za to arrange for a mammogram

• Breast self-examination: Check your breasts regularly. Cansa’s website has information on how to do it.
Look for lumps or changes in the breast’s shape and get to know the warning signs.

For more information, visit www.cansa.org.za, email info@cansa.org.za or WhatsApp 072 1979305 (English and Afrikaans), 071 8673530 (isiXhosa, isiZulu, siSwati, Sesotho and Setswana) and free tele counselling per appointment on 0800 22 66 22.

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