CANSA EDUCATES ON RIGHTS OF WOMEN TO CANCER SCREENING

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) supports the National Department of Health's efforts to prioritise awareness of breast and cervical cancer and to educate women with knowledge of symptoms, screening opportunities and lowering cancer risk.

In August, in line with its 365-Day Health Challenge, CANSA encourages women to get screened and to proactively share this on every available platform, including social media encouraging and challenging other women to get screened.

Breast cancer is the most common among South African women with a lifetime risk of 1 in 27, according to the 2014 National Cancer Registry (NCR). Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths and the second most commonly diagnosed cancer (excluding basal cell carcinoma) amongst women. The estimated life-time risk among all women in South Africa is 1:42.

Research has shown that a limited knowledge of symptoms, as well as misconceptions, stigma and shame around cancer and screening, especially cervical cancer, cause delays in women going for screening or seeking appropriate care.

Gerda Strauss, CANSA's Head of Service Delivery emphasises the importance of screening and early detection, "We urge women to get to know what is normal for their bodies, so that when they do a monthly breast self-examination (BSE), they may detect any changes, signs and symptoms of breast cancer. Get to know the warning signs and symptoms. We're excited to share an educational video that shows women how to perform a BSE, it's available on our website and social media platforms from 9 August."