[ad_1]
While breast cancer awareness is particularly important and takes center stage in October, only through action can we make a dent in the vastness of breast cancer statistics.
According to the Profmed health care program, 2020 mammography statistics are already down 30%. While this is a direct result of the pandemic panic, oncologist Georgia Demetriou of Wits Donald Gordon Medical Center believes that an increase in undiagnosed late-stage breast cancer cases is on the way and is likely to have a devastating impact on the disease. breast cancer in South Africa. .
To put it in perspective, breast cancer is the most frequently contracted cancer worldwide, with approximately 19.4 million South African women aged 15 years and over living at risk of being diagnosed with this disease. With 2020 being what it is, the resulting onset of a global pandemic has only hampered the fight against breast cancer, not just in South Africa but around the world.
Dr. Demetriou says early detection is vital, which means not only checking your breasts for lumps regularly, but also scheduling an appointment at your local radiology or oncology unit for a proper examination, especially if you felt anything abnormal. on your breasts.
“I know there is a lot of anxiety around visiting hospitals during this time, but I’m here to say that the risk of breast cancer is much greater than the risk of COVID-19, which can be almost completely avoided if the precautions are taken. adequate “.
Demetriou says that a breast cancer diagnosis is in no way a death sentence, but warns that an early or late diagnosis can mean the difference between a cure and certain death.
When it comes to cancer and COVID-19 patients, she says she has not seen COVID affect cancer treatment too much. “It has already been found in several studies that many cancer patients receiving treatment who contract COVID do not necessarily feel worse. This could be helped by the fact that cancer patients are often very attentive patients, as they understand what is at stake. ”
Dr. Demetriou believes that the drop in mammography appointments is the true impact of COVID-19 on cancer, especially breast cancer. “We say it over and over again. Early detection saves lives. It is very easy to do a self-exam once a month. By doing this, you are already in a good place if you ever feel anything abnormal. But once you do, you need to schedule a mammogram. There are no two ways to do it. ”
Dr. Demetriou acknowledges the fear that has been generated in this current context of COVID-19, but seeks to reassure women with doubts. “I work in this environment every day. Believe me when I say that hospitals and oncology units are taking all necessary precautions to stop the spread of COVID-19. Make an appointment and get a checkup. An hour of your time could save your life. ”
For women over 40, Dr. Demetriou advises scheduling a mammogram even if there are no apparent symptoms or a lump has been found. “If you are a woman over 40, your risk increases, so it is advisable to schedule a screening mammogram every two years. If you have a history of cancer in your family, you should schedule a mammogram for ten years before the age that your family member got cancer. ”
Although, it also warns women under 40 that breast cancer is still a risk. “Ask any oncologist and they will tell you all about the young people they see come into their offices. Yes, breast cancer occurs mainly in older women, but to think that it cannot happen to you because you are young is a deadly mistake. ”
While it begins with a simple self-exam, Dr. Demetriou says that if women don’t take the next step by scheduling a mammogram or at least contacting their local healthcare professional, the battle may already be lost. “Don’t become a statistic. Know your breasts. Get screened monthly and don’t be afraid to schedule a mammogram. ”
