Breast Cancer Awareness: Knowing What Normal Feels Like
Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings this disease back into focus, closer to home than many of us realise. Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in South Africa, apart from non-melanoma skin cancer. It is far less common in men, but men can develop it too.
You know your own body better than anyone does. That's not a small thing – it's the reason early detection works as well as it does. This month, we're taking a closer look at what breast cancer awareness really means, as well as the small, proactive steps that can make a real difference.
Age Is Not a Guarantee
It's a common misconception that breast cancer only affects older women. While risk does increase with age, many women under 40 are diagnosed too. Breast cancer can affect women at any age, which is why awareness matters at every life stage. Risk is higher for those with a family history. Lifestyle factors including weight, activity levels, alcohol intake and smoking can also play a role.
Risk factors are worth knowing. They tell you what to raise with your doctor, and where small changes can help.
Know the Signs
Not every lump is cancer, but every change is worth paying attention to. According to CANSA (the Cancer Association of South Africa), signs to watch for include:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
- Changes in the size, shape or texture of the breast
- Dimpling, puckering or changes to the nipple
- Unusual discharge, rash or swelling
- One breast becoming noticeably different from the other
If you notice any of these changes, don't wait it out. Speak to a healthcare professional and arrange a clinical breast examination.
Building Small Habits That Matter
Early detection remains one of the most effective tools we have. A few simple habits can help:
Monthly self-examinations. CANSA recommends a breast self-examination once a month, ideally at the same time each cycle. It only takes a few minutes and helps you get to know what's normal for your body, so you notice sooner when something changes.
Annual clinical breast examinations. In South Africa, women are entitled to a free annual clinical breast examination at primary healthcare centres. It's a simple, non-invasive check that can catch changes a self-exam might miss.
Mammograms from 40. CANSA recommends women from age 40 have an annual mammogram, moving to every two years from age 55 (or continuing annually, if preferred). Women with additional risk factors, such as a family history or a BRCA1/2 gene mutation, should speak to their doctor about starting screening earlier.
None of these steps prevent breast cancer on their own, but together, they improve the chances of catching it early, when treatment options are broader and outcomes are generally better.
Everyday Habits That Support Your Wellbeing
Screening is one part of awareness. The everyday habits that support your general wellbeing matter too. A balanced diet, regular movement, and giving your body the nutrients it needs all play a role in long-term health.
Supplementation can form part of that daily routine. Promato® is formulated with lycopene and ellagic acid, antioxidants that contribute to the protection of calls from oxidative stress, as part of a balanced lifestyle.
*Promato® is a daily wellness supplement. It is not a treatment for any condition and is not a substitute for screening or medical advice.
Where to Start
Awareness comes down to confidence: knowing what's normal for you, knowing when to ask, and knowing where to go. Talk to your doctor about your personal risk factors, build simple self-check habits into your routine, and don't put off a mammogram if you're due for one.
If you'd like support finding your nearest screening centre or learning more, CANSA (0800 22 6622) is a valuable resource for South African women and their families.
This article is for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or healthcare provider regarding your personal risk factors and screening schedule.
Sources: