Understanding the tools used to diagnose and treat breast cancer
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a critical time to focus on empowering women (and men) with knowledge and encouraging proactive health practices. Breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related death among women worldwide. In South Africa, it accounts for 22.6% of all female cancers and 16% of cancer deaths in women. These alarming statistics highlight the importance of awareness, early detection, and prevention.
While a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, it’s essential to remember that early detection dramatically improves the chances of successful treatment and recovery. As Dr Daleen Geldenhuys, a medical oncologist based at the Icon Oncology unit at Johannesburg Surgical Hospital, emphasises, knowledge is power. She encourages women to take proactive steps to reduce their risk and improve their outcomes.
“We know that self-examination and regular clinical screening help to catch the disease early when it is easier to treat. Understanding the screening options that you have available, especially if you have a family history of cancer, is important,” says Dr Geldenhuys.
Key breast cancer screening tools
Clinical breast examinations
Regular clinical breast exams can be done by your healthcare provider, whether a GP, gynaecologist, or even at public healthcare clinics.
Mammograms
If you are over 40, it’s time to consider scheduling regular mammograms. These scans are instrumental in detecting abnormalities in breast tissue early on. Patients in Johannesburg can access industry-leading mammography technology at the Johannesburg Surgical Hospital, conveniently located in a centre of excellence with multi-disciplinary teams to support you on the journey.
Breast self-examination
Nobody knows your body better than you. Conducting regular self-examinations can help you identify any changes early. If you notice any unusual signs such as a lump in the breast or armpit, swelling, irritation, dimpling, or redness on the breast or nipple area, consult a doctor immediately. Early action can make all the difference.
What if you are diagnosed with breast cancer?
A cancer diagnosis usually comes as a huge shock. It is a life-changing event and can cause turmoil and anxiety for you, your family and friends. It is important to understand that you are not alone, from diagnosis throughout your journey you will have a professional medical team to support you.
You will most probably receive treatment from surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and other specialists. At the Johannesburg Surgical Oncology unit, the team of resident oncologists includes radiation and medical oncologists who bring together multidisciplinary teams to consider each case, and to decide on a coordinated and clear course of treatment.
Types of treatment
There is an arsenal of treatment modalities available to treat breast cancer and depending on your type and stage of cancer, a multi-disciplinary team will recommend and tailor a treatment plan for you.
Surgery
If you require surgery, there is a team of specialist surgeons at Johannesburg Surgical Hospital who will work with your oncologist to determine the right surgical procedure and timing for it.
Systemic Treatment
Systemic therapy includes a wide range of treatments designed to target cancer throughout the body. Previously, the term “chemotherapy” referred specifically to intravenous cancer treatments, but the field of anticancer medications has advanced considerably. Our resident medical oncologist is supported by a pharmacist and oncology nurses and remain at the forefront of modern oncology offering a comprehensive range of systemic therapies tailored.
These include:
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone Therapies
- Targeted therapies
- Immunotherapies
Systemic treatment includes chemotherapy which can be used in combination with other treatment types to treat breast cancer.
Radiation Therapy
The radiotherapy suite includes a bunker equipped with an Elekta Harmony Pro linear accelerator (linac) ensuring that patients can access the best possible radiation therapy technology. The radiotherapy team includes a medical physicist and radiotherapists who work with the radiation oncologists to create personalised treatment plans for each patient.
Importantly the Icon Oncology unit is located within the Johannesburg Surgical Hospital complex where patients can access all supporting services under one roof. These include surgeons, radiologists and pathologists. By bringing together experts and interactions under one roof, you can improve their experience, control costs and improve the quality and efficiency of their care. This service offering brings the patient back to the same point of care for each stage of treatment.
Dr Geldenhuys stresses the broader impact of early detection: “It’s not just about the medical aspects; it’s about preserving lives, ensuring a better quality of life, and reducing the physical, emotional, and financial toll of this disease. Raising awareness, promoting regular screenings, and encouraging healthy lifestyle choices are essential strategies in the fight against breast cancer.”
