When you mention Breast Cancer Awareness Month, most people think of pink ribbons, fundraising events such as park runs, and reminders to get screened. While these efforts matter, awareness is only the first step. What matters most is knowing what is normal for your body, recognising changes and seeking medical advice when something doesn’t seem right.
Breast cancer remains one of the most diagnosed cancers among women worldwide and in South Africa. According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), one in 28 South African women faces a lifetime risk of developing breast cancer, based on the 2024 National Cancer Registry.
A diagnosis can bring uncertainty, difficult decisions and concerns about what lies ahead. Having access to reliable information, appropriate medical care and practical support can help patients and their families navigate the journey with better confidence.
According to Justine Lacy, Clinical Executive at Profmed, awareness needs to go beyond encouraging people to get checked. It should also help them understand what to look out for, when to seek advice and where to turn for support.
“Knowing your body and recognising when something has changed is an important part of looking after your health. But awareness is only just the beginning. People also need to feel comfortable seeking medical advice and asking questions about the care and support available to them. Nobody should feel that they have to figure everything out on their own,” says Lacy.
Knowing what is normal for your body
Breasts naturally differ in size, shape and texture, and these can change with age and hormonal fluctuations. Being familiar with how yours usually look and feel makes it easier to notice when something seems unusual. Changes that should prompt a conversation with a healthcare professional include:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- Dimpling, puckering or changes to the skin
- Redness, swelling or persistent pain
- Changes to the nipple, including inversion
- Unusual nipple discharge
While breast awareness is encouraged, research shows that many women still do not check their breasts regularly. In October 2026, CANSA reported that only 5% of women perform monthly breast self-examinations, highlighting the importance of encouraging women to become more familiar with their bodies. While self-checks cannot diagnose breast cancer or replace recommended screening, they can help women recognise what is normal for their bodies and notice when something changes.
Checking your breasts does not need to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be as simple as taking a moment while getting dressed or showering to notice how your breasts look and feel, and whether anything seems different from usual. If you do notice a change, such as a lump, skin changes or unusual discharge, it is important to seek medical advice soon rather than waiting to see if it goes away on its own. Self-checking is one part of being breast aware, but it should always be complemented by professional assessment and recommended screening.
What happens next?
For many people, one of the hardest parts of receiving an abnormal result is often not knowing what happens next. Depending on the situation, your healthcare professional may recommend additional tests, a biopsy or a referral to a specialist. While this can feel overwhelming, understanding the steps involved and asking questions along the way can help you feel more informed, supported and confident in the decisions being made about your care.
Helpful questions include:
- What tests are required and why?
- What do the results mean?
- What treatment options are available?
- Who will be involved in my treatment team?
- What support services are available?
Understanding the practical side of care
Patients and their families often find themselves juggling treatment decisions, paperwork and financial planning all at once. Understanding what your medical scheme covers, what authorisations may be required and what documentation is needed along the way can help make the process less overwhelming.
Cover may differ depending on factors such as the treatment involved, scheme rules, benefit option and provider arrangements, and some services may still require out-of-pocket payment. Reaching out to your medical scheme early and asking questions can help families plan ahead and focus their attention where it matters most: treatment, recovery and support.
Turning awareness into action
While every breast cancer journey is unique, no one should have to navigate it without reliable information, support and access to the care they need. Awareness is important, but informed action can make all the difference.
“Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder that awareness should lead to action. Knowing what is normal for your body, paying attention to changes and seeking medical advice promptly can make a meaningful difference. Equally important is understanding the support available to you,” concludes Lacy.
