Changes to watch for include a difference in the size, shape or symmetry of the breast; a lump or mass in the breast or under the arm; enlarged lymph nodes under the arm; and changes to the nipple, including discharge, changes in shape or retraction.
Other signs include puckering, dimpling or indentation of the skin, pain, swelling or tenderness, and skin changes such as a rash or redness.
Anyone who notices these changes should speak to a doctor so that the cause can be investigated.
Understanding breast cancer risk
Breast cancer risk can be influenced by several factors, including age, hormonal and reproductive factors, lifestyle, previous breast disease and family history.
Most breast cancers occur in people over the age of 50, while the disease is less common in women under 35.
Factors associated with increased risk include starting menstruation before age 12, experiencing menopause after 55, having no children or having children after 30, not breastfeeding and using post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy.
Lifestyle also plays a role. Alcohol and tobacco use are linked to increased cancer risk, while obesity, weight gain and physical inactivity can increase risk.
A previous breast cancer diagnosis or an abnormal biopsy finding can also increase a person's risk.
Steps to help reduce risk
Maintaining a healthy weight and diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding or reducing alcohol and tobacco use are among the practical steps people can take to support their health.
Discussing hormonal therapy with a doctor, having breast cancer risk assessed and following screening recommendations based on individual risk are also important.
People are advised to become familiar with their breasts, perform regular breast self-examinations and have regular health evaluations as recommended for their personal risk level.
According to the 2024 National Cancer Registry information included in the material, about one in 28 women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.
Most breast cancers are sporadic and are not caused by an inherited genetic predisposition. About 5–10% of breast cancer diagnoses are associated with inherited genetic changes, including changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, among others.
Family history and hereditary risk
A family history may indicate an increased hereditary risk. Patterns that may warrant further assessment include several close family members across different generations being diagnosed with breast, ovarian, pancreatic or prostate cancer, or melanoma, particularly when diagnoses occur before the age of 60.
Other factors include breast cancer diagnosed before 60, cancer occurring in both breasts, male breast cancer, triple-negative breast cancer and certain high-risk ancestry groups.
When genetic counselling may help
Assessing hereditary cancer risk depends heavily on an accurate family and medical history.
A genetic counsellor can help interpret this history, assess the likelihood of an inherited condition and provide information about genetic testing, management and prevention options.
Comprehensive counselling before and after genetic testing can help patients make informed decisions about their own health and their family's health.
It can also assist with understanding family risk, appropriate screening and potential preventive strategies.
Breast cancer cannot always be prevented, but understanding individual risk can help people make informed decisions about their health. Knowing family history, recognising what is normal for the breasts and seeking medical advice when changes occur remain important steps.
Access to specialist histopathology services in the Eastern Cape
Accurate diagnosis plays an important role in the breast cancer journey. Histopathologists contribute to this process by examining tissue samples and helping doctors establish a diagnosis that can guide decisions about further investigation and treatment.
PathCare's histopathology team serving the Eastern Cape includes Dr Lucretia Mekoa, Dr Carina Labuscagne and Dr Shumani Malaka in Gqeberha, with Dr Tshepang Sengoatsi and Dr Seipati Bulane serving the KuGompo City area.
The Gqeberha practice is situated at 3 How Avenue, Gqeberha Central, 6001.
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