The 1st – 30th October is observed as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We’ve witnessed a signifi-cant increase in cases amongst young women. 1 in every 25 women are likely to be diagnosed in their lifetime. Early detection of the condition can lead to effective treatment and a positive prognosis. In support of “Breast Cancer Awareness Month”, women are encouraged to go for annual medical check-ups and cancer screening; and familiarise themselves with the early warning signs and symptoms of cancer. It is also crucial for women to regularly check their breasts and visit health care practitioners if changes are noticed.
Awareness can help women reduce their cancer risk. Internationally renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr Brian Monaisa who hails from Itsoseng in the North West Province, owner of Marang Aesthetics said that he has seen ¬first-hand the devastation that breast cancer can bring. He has teamed up with a group of artists and fashion designers in order to raise funds for breast cancer reconstructive surgery.
“We are here to try to make a difficult situation just a little more bearable, we know it can be expensive to get back to who you want to be and live your life freely again. This goal becomes attainable when we work together.”
Choosing whether or not to have breast reconstruction is a very personal decision. There’s no right or wrong choice. A woman can have reconstruction at the same time as breast cancer surgery, known as immediate reconstruction; or months or years later, known as delayed reconstruction.
Having a breast reconstruction will not increase the chances of the breast cancer coming back. However, many women do not get the chance to make this choice as they simply cannot afford it. Most medical aids do not cover the costs as it is a cosmetic procedure. The surgeries are normally carried out by an oncoplastic breast surgeon, or a plastic surgeon trained in breast reconstruction.
Dr Monaisa, one of 14 black plastic surgeons in South Africa, established ‘Smile Artists Africa’ where he teamed up with incredible independent, artists for this amazing project. Renowned and rising artists have responded to the call and donated works to be sold in aid of empowering female cancer survivors.
The following are common breast cancer signs and symptoms, which include:
- A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit
- A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling;
- A change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look red or inflamed;
- A change to the nipple, for example, it has become pulled inverted;
- Rash or crusting around the nipple;
- Any unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple; and
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast.
Women must develop the habit of regularly checking their breasts, including the upper chest areas and armpits:
- Touch your breasts: can you feel anything unusual?
- Look for changes: does anything look different?
- Check any changes with your GP.
