Working with breast cancer

BREAST cancer is the most common cancer in women globally. Depending on a woman’s genetic predisposition, the risk of developing invasive breast cancer in their lifetime ranges from one in eight to one in 26. The disease accounts for a quarter of all cancers in South African women (24.11%); with over 11 000 new cases diagnosed in 2022.

- MIA BARNARD

Workplace awareness

With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s an opportune time to highlight that although many women will suffer a temporary loss of work capacity after a life-threatening diagnosis, breast cancer does not take away their ability to work. In fact, understanding and effective support from employers can help women regain momentum and productivity at work, and aid their recovery. According to a paper published by Stellenbosch Business School, remaining in work contributes positively to a woman’s prospects of recovery - and those who do continue working have a higher survival rate.