Early Detection Saves Lives and Safeguards Income-generation
Controlling Breast Cancer
An all too familiar tagline, “Early detection saves lives” highlights the benefits of early cancer screenings. Breast cancer has become the leading cancer for women; investing in your health has never been so important. “Invest in Pink” this breast cancer awareness month and have your breasts professionally examined. This increases your chance of a successful treatment. After all, you pursue prosperity at every turn by providing for various households and being an invaluable member of the establishment you work for. Your health is your wealth.
Professional Women Might be More Susceptible
With factors such as high stress increasing cortisol levels, a steroid hormone, a Wisconsin study conducted concluded that women who worked in 1975 – a disruption era that saw women take on more demanding roles in the workplace- showed a higher susceptibility to breast cancer.
Staggering African Women Statistics
The National Cancer Registry cites breast cancer as the number one cause of cancer deaths. In 2012, GLOBOCAN reported that 51% of breast cancer diagnosis in Africa resulted in mortality. Detecting breast cancer early heightens your chance of a successful treatment.
The youngest female reported to have had breast cancer in South Africa was only six-years-old at the time. By the age of 8/9 years-young, she had undergone a double mastectomy. By 2030, Journal Lancet predicts a 78% increase of South African cancer cases in comparison to a global estimation of 75%. Black women mortality rate stands at 40% higher than that of white women.
Breast cancer does not affect just the individual diagnosed but their loved ones and dependents as well. While the physical impact of cancer cannot be felt by others, the emotional, psychological, and often, economical effect transcends the individual.
Breast Cancer Causes and Prevention
The cause of breast cancer is not yet known, however, the lack of survival rate in less developed countries is attributed to late detection which often results in advanced stages and more aggressive-requiring treatment. Taking initiative to get your annual check-up can very well offset late detection and lead to earlier and more successful treatment. Monthly self-examinations also help prevent late breast cancer diagnosis.
Money Pressures Due to Breast Cancer
Illness and disease have a grave impact on companies and the economy as a whole. EOH Health reports that work absenteeism is recorded at a yearly loss in excess of R19 billion in South Africa. Direct medical costs, increased utility bills (as the result of recovering at home) and travel and transport costs related to treatment are some of the income-impacting side-effects of breast cancer treatment. Another effect is that of breadwinners. If you’re a businesswoman, for example, and employ 10 people who, in total, take care of 30 family members, there are 40 people whose survival depends on your personal wellbeing. In recognising this you know that health is wealth and that investing in your wellbeing as much and as often as you invest in growing your business is crucial.
Knowledge and Action are a Winning Combo
Take the first step and get your breasts examined this breast cancer awareness month – and conduct regular self-examinations – to increase early detection and successful treatment. Live a more balanced lifestyle by exercising, making better eating and drinking choices, reducing tobacco intake and decreasing stress levels. Invest in pink and remember that your health is your wealth.
