Breast cancer is a topic most women undoubtedly shudder to think about, and a sad reality is that many women are reportedly diagnosed in later stages due to a lack of sufficient awareness and education about it, or suitable health care available. This is something that the non-profit organisation, ILoveBoobies, seeks to change for South African women.
From a small fundraising effort in 2016 to an established and registered non-profit in 2017, ILoveBoobies has been focused on its mission: ‘to provide free breast health education, awareness, and screenings to women in underserved communities’. The name itself was chosen with purpose: “We wanted a name that made people stop, smile, and then start a serious conversation about women’s health,” shared Nicky Webb, the organisation’s director.
Early Detection Saves Lives
This is at the core of what ILoveBoobies stands for: to bridge the gap between where women are often in positions that lack sufficient finances, logistical, or medical means, to where they can be empowered and take care of their health. The organisation has provided over 12,000 free screenings across South Africa since it started. Women diagnosed with abnormalities have been given the necessary care by a medical network of private radiologists, pathologists, and doctors, under equal standards as paying patients.
Funding The Mission
ILoveBoobies doesn’t solely rely on donations but takes a proactive approach to raise funds. This is primarily through sporting events such as their flagship Imagine Challenge. Whether it’s running, cycling, swimming, or any other form of exercise/movement that brings together thousands of participants to “Move4Change”. Community partnerships and merchandise sales, such as their activewear, cycling jerseys, and signature ILoveBoobies socks, of which every five pairs sold funds one free screening.
They recently hosted their first Secret Swim challenge in KwaZulu-Natal at Midmar Dam in October, which is also Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It was a secluded female-only zone that welcomed women affected by breast cancer, survivors, and those supporting them.
Be In Control of Your Breast Health
We asked Sarah Barnett, Senior Mammographer from Drs Kauffman and Partners in Pietermaritzburg, some important questions to educate us on breast health.
When and why should I have a mammogram?
Annual mammography is advised from the age of 40; however, if you notice a change in your breasts between your mammograms, you should always get this checked. The aim of mammography is to find lumps before they are felt, as well as microcalcifications which are not felt during self-examination or seen on ultrasound. Early detection of breast cancer at stage one has a 99% survival rate for five years with the appropriate treatment.
What are the changes in my breasts, and how do I check them?
Changes in your breasts include feeling a lump, pain, skin changes, nipple changes, or nipple discharge. Ladies, try not to assume that a change in your breast means breast cancer. There are many benign, non-cancerous breast conditions, for example, cysts or fibroadenomas. Breast imaging is the only way to conclusively evaluate any changes you find. Please scan the QR code at the end of the article to watch a short video on how to do a self-examination and share this video with those you care about.
Is a mammogram painful?
It may be uncomfortable, but keeping relaxed helps you reduce your discomfort. Compression is used for the images, this is to hold the breast still, even out the tissue, and to make the breast thinner than normal so we can reduce your X-ray dose.
Are there any other ways to image my breasts?
Ultrasound is used to complement mammograms, and for those under the age of 35. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a sensitive breast imaging tool and is valuable when assessing dense, complex breast tissue, and when screening younger women with a family history. This technique is expensive and takes time when compared to mammography; therefore, it is not used for routine breast screening. Thermography uses thermal imaging. This is not recommended as a screening technique as it is not FDA-approved as a stand-alone imaging technique; therefore, a mammogram is still required.
- Every woman should have a breast imaging plan and know how to perform breast self-examination.
- Breast cancer affects one in eight women, 4% of whom are under the age of 40.
- Mammography is the first imaging tool used to detect breast cancer.
- Fear is a common emotion experienced by women who come for mammography. We aim to reduce fear and replace it with knowledge.
Your Breast Plan:
1. Monthly self-examination from 18.
2. See your GP if you notice any changes.
3. Annual mammograms from 40.
4. Book your mammogram when your breasts feel least sensitive.
5. Lastly, remember, early detection saves lives.
If you would like to find out more about how you can participate or learn more about how you can perform your own breast self-examination, visit the ILoveBoobies website or visit their YouTube link below:
https://youtu.be/zofPwr7yvAg?list=TLGGf532XJ_vq0cwNDA5MjAyNQ
WORDS: Alicia Du Plessis
PHOTO: Benhouse Media