Breast Cancer Awareness Month signifies the importance of early detection through regular screening

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers amongst women in South Africa and almost 1 in every 25 women are likely to be diagnosed in their lifetime. However, on the eve of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Keystone Radiology, says the emphasis should be on early detection through regular screening. Dr Pieter Henning says early detection could easily become the determining factor when dealing with a life-threatening disease.

‘Breast cancer is the most common cancer type in women in South Africa, accounting for 0.7% of all deaths annually. Contributing to the current rate of breast cancer diagnosis, is the lack of a dedicated national screening program, with most South African women remaining uninformed regarding the necessity for regular screening for breast cancer,’ he says.

Henning says it is a dangerous assumption to make that breast cancer can only affect older women. The risk for breast cancer increases as women grow older, however, younger women are also at risk.

‘Nowadays many women under the age of 40 are also diagnosed with breast cancer. It is safe to say that all women are at risk, and in particular women with a family history of breast cancer. Poor lifestyle habits such as being overweight, inactive, consuming alcohol, poor dietary habits, smoking and exposure to chemicals also increase the risk,’ he explains.

Henning says Keystone Medical is firmly placing the spotlight on the importance of regular screening as part of effective prevention measures. He says awareness of risk factors can help women reduce their personal cancer risk.

‘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-breast examinations, clinical breast examinations, mammograms and MammaPrint or Genomic testing.’

Henning says Keystone Medical has a strong focus on women’s wellness and have recently launched the #ScreenHerSaveHer campaign, which is centred around early detection and treatment. The campaign is used in conjunction with their state-of-the-art Mobile Mammogram Unit, which they deploy to various areas in the country.

‘The mobile breast cancer screening unit is the only one of its kind in South Africa, aiming to make Mammographic screening accessible to all women. While we have diagnostic imaging centres in many parts of the country, we utilise the mobile unit as part of targeted campaigns in certain communities or for corporates who would like to give their female staff the opportunity to get screened while at work.’ Henning 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 provide 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,’ Henning says.

Keystone Medical 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 reporting.