Have you touched your boobs lately? No. Well, it’s time.

Hello beautiful!

Did you know that Breast Cancer Awareness month is here? It’s October, and we want to know, do you touch your boobs? We certainly hope so. The best way to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer is through monthly self-exams and free mammograms. If you’ve been putting off a check-up or screening, don’t wait any longer! It’s important that all women take care of themselves as they grow older. This October, invest in your breasts and show them some love by scheduling a time with your doctor for a mammogram or exam at least once every year.

Some statistics / Some StaTITstics 😉

Approximately 19.4 million women aged 15 years and older live at risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer – the cancer affecting women in South Africa the most.

According to the 2017 National Cancer Registry (NCR), apart from non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women of all races, with a lifetime risk of 1 in 25 in South Africa.

The risk for breast cancer increases as women grow older, but many women under the age of 40 are diagnosed with breast cancer.

95% of women survive breast cancer if detected early. That’s why self-checking is so important. Yet, many South African women don’t know how to self-check.

Self-assess your sissies / Know your knockers / Self-assessment at home

During breast self-examination, a woman takes time to examine her breasts and get used to how they feel and look. She checks her breast for any differences, which might include a change in the size or shape of the breast, any irregularities in the skin, any changes in the nipple and any lumps in the breast or under the arm. It is a free and easy way for women to get used to noticing any changes in the breast, and we recommend you carry out breast self-examination monthly, at the same time in your cycle if still menstruating, or on the same day each month.

Get to know your knockers! It might seem like a no-brainer, but getting to know your body and knowing what feels normal and unusual might just help you save your life. Knowledge is power! Watch these educational videos to learn how to do a thorough self-examination: How can I check for breast cancer?

More information

Educate yourself and your loved ones. There are a multitude of platforms with insightful information about breast cancer and groups one can join to get educated:

• CANSA – A leader in the fight against cancer in SA, since 1931, with the purpose to offer a unique, integrated service to the public and all people affected by cancer.
• Breast Health Foundation – This non-profit educate the public on breast cancer and breast health, increases awareness, and empowers women.
• PinkDrive – PinkDrive’s cardinal purpose is to contribute meaningfully towards preventing as many people as it can from succumbing to breast, cervical, prostate and testicular cancer.

The PinkDrive also host numerous events that you can be a part of. Make a note in your diary for these:

• 1 October – PinkDrive Open Day
• 2 October – Bra Hike
• 30 October – Harley Pink Bike Ride

So, go ahead and touch those breasts! And if you notice anything new or different, call your doctor just to be sure. Always remember you are not alone. Become a Bosom Buddy! This support group provides emotional and informative support to women and men affected by breast cancer at the time of diagnosis, during treatment and beyond.

Celebrate the Girls this October by giving them the necessary attention!