Breast cancer is most prominent amongst females and the rate of recorded cases has increased drastically over the past few years, which is why the month of October was celebrated as breast cancer awareness month.

High-risk individuals are women over the age of 40, women with a personal history of breast cancer and those who have a family history of breast cancer. As with all types of cancer it is advantageous to detect breast cancer early.

Women should develop a routine and do a monthly self-examination for lumps. If a lump is detected they should consult a medical practitioner who would then send them for a mammogram. Once the diagnosis from the mammogram is received a complete pathology report will determine the appropriate treatment options.

Issued by:
The Directorate Communications
Office of the Superintendent of Health, Western Cape
Department of Health Faiza Steyn
Director: Communication
021 483 3235