Oct 2025 2nd edition

How to protect your breasts

Written by CANSA

October is recognised as How to protect your breastsBreast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating and empowering women to take charge of their breast health through early detection and regular screening.

Approximately 19.4 million South African women aged 15 and older live at risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer, the most common cancer affecting women in the country. 

In 2013, deaths from breast cancer and cancers of the female genital tract accounted for nearly two percent of all deaths among South African women.

While the risk of developing breast cancer increases with age, younger women and men are not immune. Lifestyle factors such as being overweight, physically inactive, consuming alcohol, smoking, and following poor dietary habits can heighten the risk. Women with a family history of breast cancer should also be especially vigilant.

One of the simplest and most effective ways to detect unusual changes early is by performing a monthly breast self-examination. It’s easy, quick, and could make all the difference.

 

How to do a breast self-examination
  1. In the mirror

    Stand in front of a mirror and check your breasts for any visible changes such as dimpling, puckering, changes in size, shape, or colour, or nipple discharge.

    Inspect from different positions: arms at your sides, arms overhead, and hands pressed on hips while leaning forward.

  2. Lying down

    Lie on your back with a pillow under your right shoulder and your right hand behind your head.

    Using the pads of your left fingers, move in small circular motions over your right breast, covering the entire area including underarms and up to the collarbone.

    Repeat on the left side.

  3. While bathing

    When your skin is slippery with soap, raise one arm and check each breast using the same circular motion technique.

If you notice any unusual lumps, discharge, swelling, or changes in the look or feel of your breasts, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

This information was supplied by CANSA.

 

For more information or support, contact the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA):
  • Toll-free: 0800 22 6622
  • WhatsApp (text only): 072 197 9305 (English and Afrikaans)
  • WhatsApp (text only): 071 867 3530 (isiXhosa, isiZulu, Sesotho, Setswana and Sepedi)
  • Email: info@cansa.org.za
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