New breast cancer movement stresses the importance of early detection through regular screening
Breast cancer is the most common cancer type amongst women in South Africa and a lack of regular screening through mammograms and breast sonars are adding to the already heavy burden.
Radiology Group, Keystone Radiology, says that they have launched a national campaign, urging women of all ages to prioritise their health by committing to annual breast cancer screenings. Dr Nikoli van Zyl says the Screen Her Save Her movement is based on the premise that early detection through screening is critical.
‘We have officially launched the Screen Her Save Her campaign, aimed at encouraging women to commit to annual breast cancer screenings. We know that breast cancer is one of the most common cancers amongst women and almost 1 in every 25 women are likely to be diagnosed in their lifetime. Early detection could easily become the determining factor when dealing with a life-threatening disease,’
she says.
Dr Van Zyl says despite the numerous awareness campaigns around the disease, the majority of women in South Africa are still uninformed about the necessity for regular screening. Screening can be done via self-examination, Mammography and ultrasound – which remains the gold standard for the early detection of breast cancer.
‘Many women still do not self-examine their breasts regularly for potential signs of breast cancer or are unaware of what signs they need to look for. Interestingly enough, most cases of the disease are diagnosed when a woman has identified a change and goes for a medical examination. Many changes turn out not to be breast cancer, however, this could be the first essential step that can lead to an early diagnosis. Early diagnosis increases the chances of and options for successful treatment, which can prevent women from dying from the disease, emphasising the importance of regular breast-cancer screening which should not be underestimated,’
Dr van Zyl explains.
Screen Her Save Her encourages women to not only pledge their commitment towards an annual mammogram, but also to motivate friends, family and work colleagues to follow suit. Dr van Zyl says as a radiologist, she is in the unfortunate position of making new breast cancer diagnosis almost on a daily basis.
‘I have first-hand experience and see the uncertainty in the eyes of patients as well as the unanswered questions about the uncertain road ahead. Keystone Medical, therefore, came together as a group to help our patients navigate the breast cancer journey, thus giving life to the Screen Her Save Her Campaign. The movement aims to bring like-minded women together to rally behind a common goal,’
she says.
Dr van Zyl says it’s important to note that breast cancer awareness should not be limited to the official Breast Cancer Month in October.
‘Breast cancer does not operate according to a calendar and therefore it is important that women put their health and well-being first every day of the year. We believe that awareness of the symptoms, and early detection through screening, can help lead to earlier diagnosis, resulting in improved treatment outcomes. Women can reduce the risk through regular examinations which include self-examination, clinical breast exams, mammograms, ultrasounds and Genomic testing,’
Dr van Zyl explains.
Van Zyl says women can join via the website or Facebook where they will receive facts about how to look after your physical and mental health as well as the science behind treatment options and procedures. She says this will not be a one way communication stream whereby members will only receive information. She says members will be able to ask questions about all matters relating to breast cancer and receive feedback from professionals as well as other members.
‘Whether you’re a survivor of breast cancer, a supporter of the screening movement, a caregiver or a friend of a loved one that was diagnosed with cancer, this group will be suited for you. You will receive regular updates via the Facebook group and newsletters, dealing with important topics and discussions. Here you will also find a strong support group for your journey,’
van Zyl elaborates.
Van Zyl says topics under discussion will include treatment options, how to boost your immune system and much more. She says going forward, the movement will also appoint ambassadors, consisting of mainly passionate volunteers, guided by professional medical staff, who will drive the conversation.
Dr van Zyl says they have officially launched the Screen Her Save Her campaign in the Garden Route, where Keystone Medical’s mobile breast cancer screening unit is currently deployed providing women with the opportunity to go for a mammogram and breast ultrasound in a safe and convenient, out-of-hospital environment.
‘The mobile breast cancer screening unit is the only one of its kind in South Africa, aiming to make Mammographic and breast sonar screening accessible to all women. While we have medical practices in many parts of the country, we utilise the mobile unit as part of targeted campaigns in communities as well as for corporates who would like to give their female staff the opportunity to get screened in a convenient and save out-of-hospital environment. Over the next two months we will be visiting a few towns along the Garden Route which include George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Oudtshoorn and Riversdale,’
Dr van Zyl explains.
The mobile screening unit is equipped with state-of-the-art mammogram and breast ultrasound modalities. It focusses on patient education, comprehensive evaluation and patient-centred experiences as well as elevating the detection of breast cancer to the highest international standards.
‘With private changing rooms and modern, comfortable facilities, we make it as convenient as possible for our patients. Patients have one-on-one sessions with our professional medical staff and are provided with immediate results. Patients also have direct interaction with the reporting radiologist. We are very passionate about this project and know that many lives will be impacted by creating awareness of early diagnosis and treatment,’
Dr van Zyl says.
Keystone Radiology is a modern and innovative radiology service provider, offering a convenient service in low-risk environments. Their state-of-the-art equipment and highly specialised personnel offer patients a fast delivery of both radiology services and quality reporting.
