It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Every October, many people all over the world show support to people affected by breast cancer. According to the World Health Organization, ‘in 2020, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685 000 deaths globally. As of the end of 2020, there were 7.8 million women alive who were diagnosed with breast cancer in the past 5 years, making it the world’s most prevalent cancer.’

In Kenya, cancer is the leading cause of death from non-communicable diseases (or NCDs), and the number of cases is rising rapidly. The illness affects Kenyans of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds.

Cervical cancer makes up the largest portion of cancer cases (nearly 12%) followed by breast cancer. Breast cancer is not transmissible or infectious. There are no known viral or bacterial infections linked to it.

Every year, approximately 4,500 patients are diagnosed with the disease and 200 patients lose their lives. Also, more than 50% of the cases are of women who are under the age of 50. Early diagnosis and treatment could greatly reduce the burden of breast cancer and improve treatment outcomes.

Unfortunately, like many low-income countries, most cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. It affects families socioeconomically as they must make huge sacrifices and often resort to selling assets. Households not covered by health insurance often plunge them further into insolvency.

Cancer is treatable if diagnosed early. The most common form of treatment for breast cancer is surgery. This involves removing the tumor and nearby margins. Surgical options may include a lumpectomy, partial mastectomy, radical mastectomy, and reconstruction.

It’s important to note that Breast Cancer does not only affect women, it also affects men. October being the awareness month, here are some symptoms to look out for.

• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit)
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood
• Any change in the size or the shape of the breast
• Pain in any area of the breast

If detected early, breast cancer can be treated. After treatment, most people go on to live normal lives. Also, if a friend or family member has been affected, it’s important to rally together and give them all the care and support that they need. Cancer is beatable!