Pretoria - Each year, 14 million people learn that they have cancer and in South Africa, 1 in 4 people are affected, says Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) CEO, Sue Janse van Rensburg.
Today marks World Cancer Day and van Rensburg said that CANSA was using the day to raise awareness to highlight and tackle common cancer myths.
“This is something we should all talk about to help challenge negative beliefs, attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate myths, cause fear and stigma, preventing people from seeking early detection and treatment, as well as declining vaccination,” she said.
The four common cancer myths, which CANSA is focusing on and providing facts on, are:
- We don’t need to talk about cancer
- There are no signs or symptoms of cancer
- There is nothing I can do about cancer
- I don’t have the right to cancer care
Van Rensburg admits that cancer can be a difficult topic to address, particularly in some cultures and settings. However, she said that dealing with the disease openly can improve outcomes at an individual, community and policy level.
“For most people, a diagnosis of cancer is a life-changing event, commonly evoking feelings of shock, fear, anger, sadness, loneliness and anxiety. When someone has cancer, talking about cancer to partners, family members, friends and colleagues can help alleviate these feelings,” she said.
While the benefits of early detection are beyond doubt as for many cancers, there are warning signs and symptoms, Van Rensburg stressed the importance of knowing and recognising the general signs and symptoms of cancer.
Warning signs for adult cancer include unusual discharge or abnormal bleeding, thickening or lump in the breast, testicles or elsewhere, indigestion or difficulty in swallowing, obvious change in the size, colour, shape or thickness of a wart, mole or mouth sore, change in bowel or bladder habits.
Other signs include nagging cough or continued hoarseness, a sore that does not heal, chronic pain in bones or any other area of the body, enduring fatigue, nausea or vomiting, repeated infection and/or inflammation, any continued fever and noticeable weight loss, as well as loss of appetite.
“While some symptoms might be caused by another health problem, if you notice one or more symptoms or if the symptoms persist, go see a health professional without delay.
“Cancer can be prevented and treated more effectively if diagnosed early and it’s vital to be aware of risk factors and ways to reduce the cancer risk. It all starts with making smart lifestyle choices,” Van Rensburg advised.
She further reminded patients that the Constitution of South Africa guarantees all people the right to access proven and effective cancer treatments and services on equal terms and without suffering hardship as a consequence.
“Tertiary hospitals in South Africa have specialised oncology units, while most cancer treatments are also available at secondary hospitals. The State included Hepatitis B and recently the HPV vaccination as part of its Expanded Programme of Immunisation. In the private sector, most Medical Aid organisations provide special managed oncology care programmes to its members, while private hospitals may provide oncology services.”
CANSA has various active support groups that connect patients, survivors and their loved ones with others who have ‘been there’ for insight, moral support understanding, hope and inspiration.
For further information regarding CANSA Care Homes, contact your local CANSA Care Centre. Alternately, phone the Toll-Free Call Centre at 0800 22 66 22 or email at info@cansa.org.za. – SAnews.gov.za
