October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re here to talk openly, honestly, and
supportively about one of the most common cancers affecting women today. At Well Family
Practice, we believe that informed patients make empowered choices — and when it comes
to breast cancer, early detection truly saves lives.

The Stats: What You Need to Know

•  Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women globally.
•  In South Africa, 1 in 27 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.
•  The good news? 89% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are still alive five years later — thanks to earlier detection and improved treatment.

What Increases Your Risk?

Breast cancer doesn’t play fair — it affects women (and sometimes men) of all ages and
backgrounds. Here are some key risk factors to keep in mind:
You can’t control:

1. Being female – Breast cancer is far more common in women, though men can get it
   too.
2. Growing older – Risk increases with age, but younger women can and do get
   diagnosed.
3. Family history – A first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) with breast cancer
   doubles your risk. A male relative with prostate cancer can also increase your risk.
4. Genetics – About 5–10% of breast cancers are hereditary. BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene
   mutations increase the risk significantly.
5. Personal cancer history – If you’ve had breast cancer before, you’re more likely to
   get it again.
6. Radiation exposure – Especially radiation to the chest before age 30.

You can control:

1. Weight – Being overweight, especially after menopause, increases your risk.
2. Pregnancy history – Not having a full-term pregnancy or having your first child after
   30 may increase your risk.
3. Breastfeeding – Breastfeeding for over a year may reduce your risk.
4. Menstrual history – Starting periods before 12 or going through menopause after 55
   raises your risk.
5. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – Current or recent HRT use increases risk.
6. Alcohol – Drinking alcohol raises your risk of hormone-sensitive breast cancer.
7. Dense breast tissue – Increases risk and makes it harder to detect abnormalities on
   a mammogram.
8. Physical inactivity – Regular moderate to intense exercise (4–7 hours/week) lowers
   your risk.
9. Smoking – Particularly risky for younger, premenopausal women.

Remember: Breast cancer is not sexist, racist, or ageist. It can affect anyone.

So What Can You Do?

✅ Know your risk

✅ Talk to your doctor about screening — especially if you have a family history

✅ Book regular mammograms if you’re over 40 (or earlier if advised)

✅ Get moving, eat well, and avoid smoking and excess alcohol

✅ Know your normal — report any changes in your breasts right away