CANSA and ER24 urge people to get themselves screened for cancer as early detection can help save lives.
Tomorrow February 4, marks World Cancer Day and CANSA is hosting open days at 30 of its care centres countrywide. More than 100 000 people in South Africa are diagnosed with cancer annually according to Elize Joubert, CANSA’s acting chief executive officer.
According research conducted by CANSA’s head of health, Professor Michael Herbst, scientific evidence shows that lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise as well as avoidance of carcinogens (cancer causing agents) can play a vital role in lowering cancer risk.
He stated it is important to pay attention to signs and symptoms that may present themselves. People should have themselves checked if they experience unexplained changes in their body. Regular physical examinations and health screening tests are an important part of preventative health care.
Taking place under the tagline ‘Not Beyond Us’, World Cancer Day focuses on taking a positive and proactive approach on the fight against cancer. The theme highlights that solutions do exist.
CANSA invites people to visit and find out more about their care and support programmes.
Joubert said, “We want to ensure fewer people develop cancer and that cancer survivors are successfully treated and offered care, support, guidance and advice to all those affected by cancer to ensure a better quality of life. We know that cancer can have a serious impact on a person’s emotional, physical and mental state. By understanding and responding to that impact, the quality of life for patients, their loved ones and caregivers can be maximised.”
CANSA provides comprehensive care and support programmes for cancer patients and their families, to help them find the best care solution and advice on managing side effects of treatment.
Many of the care centre teams provide early detection screening programmes to help reduce the cancer risk.
“For many people facing a cancer diagnosis, it’s the toughest fight of their lives. Maintaining social support networks and talking about cancer is important for the person living with cancer and their caregiver. We encourage cancer survivors to join our ‘iSurvivor’ e-online support programme,” said Joubert.
‘iSurvivor’ is a free, e-mail based programme written by a cancer survivor to help other survivors cope better.
For more information visit www.cansa.org.za or contact CANSA toll-free 0800226622. Alternatively email info@cansa.org.za
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