World Cancer Day – 4 February 2025: Screening saves lives
In South Africa, over 100 000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed annually, resulting in over 60 000 deaths due to cancer. Despite these alarming statistics, many cancer-related deaths can be prevented through early screening.
World Cancer Day aims to raise awareness about cancer and encourage global action.
The most diagnosed cancers in South Africa are breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer. However, if caught early, the survival rate for these cancers can be over 90%.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women of all races.
Mammograms, which are X-ray examinations of the breast area, can reduce breast cancer mortality (deaths due to cancer) by 20 to 60%.
While mammograms aren’t generally recommended for women under 40, more people are being diagnosed with breast cancer at younger ages. You should consult your doctor if you are at higher risk.
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. The risk for cervical cancer can be reduced by:
A Pap smear is a vaginal examination that checks for abnormalities in the cells of the cervix.
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the biggest risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact and sexual intercourse. The HPV vaccine is recommended to help prevent HPV infection and lower the chance of developing cervical cancer later in life.
Over 4 000 South African men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year, accounting for 13% of male deaths. Screening for prostate cancer involves a digital rectal exam (DRE) to detect abnormalities or lumps in the prostate, and a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, which monitors a protein that enters the blood when there is a problem with the prostate.
A PSA level above 4.0 ng/mL is usually cause for concern, but your doctor will decide whether further treatment is needed by looking at the risks and benefits.
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. If we don’t take action, the number of cancer-related deaths is expected to rise to 13.2 million per year by 2030. Regular screening and early detection can save lives.
Remember: Bonitas offers screening benefits that are paid from Risk. These include mammograms, Pap smears, HPV vaccinations and PSA tests. Please refer to your plan brochure or how-to-guides on the member information hub.
