October is breast cancer awareness month, which serves as a reminder to take testing and self-examination seriously. One in 29 women in South Africa will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, yet the good news is that breast cancer, as with other types of cancers, is treatable when detected early.

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in South Africa and entails the growth of cancer cells and a malignant tumour that starts in the cells of the breast. It is found mostly in women, but men can also get breast cancer.

Early detection is key, which is why CANSA encourages all women to conduct regular self-examinations once a month. Many breast lumps are harmless, but they should all be checked.

Symptom-free women from the age of 40, should go for a mammogram (a special x-ray to detect lumps in the breast), every year. It plays a central part in the early detection of breast cancers, because it can show changes in the breast up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them.

Breast cancer is easily detectable as a lump often appears in one or both breasts. This lump is usually hard and painless with uneven edges. It's important to get anything unusual checked by a health professional.

Other signs of breast cancer include the following:

• Swelling of all or part of the breast.

• Skin irritation or dimpling.

• Breast pain.

• Nipple pain or the nipple turning inward.

• Redness, scaliness or thickening of the nipple or breast skin.

• A nipple discharge other than breast milk.

• A lump in the underarm area.

Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise is also key to preventing cancer. Medical experts advise against high fat diets, alcohol and smoking as these factors increase the chances of getting cancer.

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