Netcare uMhlanga Hospital is hosting a cancer awareness drive on 18 October at the Netcare uMhlanga Medical Centre. The event will begin at 08:00 and continue until noon, featuring a variety of exhibitors and an informative programme dedicated to cancer education and support.
According to the event organisers, attendees can look forward to an engaging morning filled with valuable resources and interactive experiences that will raise awareness and foster a supportive community. There is no charge for attending this informative health day.
The highlight will be the formal programme, which kicks off at 10:00 under the expert guidance of oncologist Dr Thilomi Naidoo. This segment promises to be both enlightening and inspiring, featuring educational talks, practical advice, and heartwarming stories of triumph from former patients. Dr Naidoo's expertise and the firsthand accounts of survivors will offer an in-depth perspective on the journey of cancer treatment and recovery.
Dr Naidoo will also provide insights into cancer care and recent advancements in the treatment and management of breast cancer. "Data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer [IARC] indicates that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer type, accounting for as many as one in every eight cancer diagnoses worldwide. It is, therefore, crucial to educate the public about the importance of early detection and the range of treatments available to improve survival rates,” she says.
| Please join oncologist Dr Thilomi Naidoo as she shares inspiring journeys of triumph, practical advice, and the latest advancements in breast cancer care at the cancer awareness drive on 18 October at the Netcare uMhlanga Medical Centre. Together, let's embrace the power of early detection and innovation in the fight against cancer. |
| Sr Rowan Robinson, head of nurse navigation and quality lead at Netcare Cancer Care, will share her expertise, experience and some sound advice at the cancer drive on 18 October. She says understanding the causes and risk factors associated with breast cancer is essential for prevention and early intervention and that factors such as age, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle choices can all influence the likelihood of developing breast cancer, but that people can develop breast cancer without having any risk factors. |
Breast cancer forms in the cells of the breasts and can affect both men and women, though it is significantly more common in women. The first sign often includes a breast lump or an abnormal mammogram, and symptoms can range from changes in breast size and shape to skin alterations and nipple inversion.
Dr Naidoo emphasises the importance of recognising these signs early: “Regular screening, leading to early detection and treatment, can drastically improve outcomes. Advances in personalised treatment and a better understanding of the disease have contributed to improved survival rates and the steady decline in mortality associated with breast cancer.”
The cancer awareness drive will focus on breast cancer, offering comprehensive information on prevention, risk factors, and treatment options. Sr Rowan Robinson, head of nurse navigation and quality lead at Netcare Cancer Care, will be available to share her extensive expertise and experience while offering sound advice.
"Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with breast cancer is essential for prevention and early intervention," says Sr Robinson. "Factors such as age, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle choices can all influence the likelihood of developing breast cancer, although people can develop breast cancer without having any risk factors. Our goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health."
Key risk factors for breast cancer
- Being female
- Increasing age
- Personal history of breast cancer
- Family history of breast cancer
- Inherited genetic mutations (e.g. BRCA1 and BRCA2)
- Radiation exposure
- Obesity
- Early onset of menstruation (before age 12)
- Late onset of menopause
- Having children later in life (after the age of 30) or not at all
- Hormone therapy (especially postmenopausal hormone therapy combining oestrogen and progesterone)
- Alcohol consumption
"Through events like this cancer drive, we aim to foster a supportive community where individuals can learn, ask questions, and find the resources they need. We're here to guide patients and their families through every step of their journey, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond," promises Sr Robinson.
For more information about the event, please get in touch with Reshma Singh at Netcare uMhlanga Hospital at 0315605510 or [email protected]
Notes to editor
Experience seamless healthcare access with the Netcare App. Enjoy convenient healthcare anytime, anywhere, with expert medical care at your fingertips. Book appointments, consult with GPs virtually and manage pre-admissions all in one place. From emergency response services with geolocation to seamless admission, discover a new level of care. Download the Netcare App today. Alternatively, contact Netcare Appointmed on 0860 555 565, Mondays to Fridays, 08:00 to 17:00 to make an appointment with a therapist, doctor or specialist practising at a Netcare hospital, Netcare Medicross or Netcare Akeso facility near you.
For media enquiries, contact MNA at the contact details listed below.
Issued by: MNA on behalf of Netcare uMhlanga Hospital
For media enquiries contact: Martina Nicholson, Meggan Saville, Estene Lotriet-Vorster and Clementine Forsthofer
Telephone: (011) 469 3016
Email: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected] or [email protected]