Cape Radiology: Understanding breast cancer risks and screening for early detection

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting women worldwide, including South Africa. One in ten women in developed countries will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.

While the risk increases with age, with most cases diagnosed after 50, breast cancer can also occur in younger women, where it may be more aggressive and fast-growing. Although there is no single known cause, several factors may increase risk, including family history, obesity, alcohol consumption, smoking, and physical inactivity. Importantly, most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no identifiable risk factors, and fewer than 10% of cases are hereditary.

Screening for early detection: Screening involves using modern imaging techniques to examine the breasts at regular intervals, aiming to detect early changes that may indicate breast cancer. Regular breast screening has been proven to be the most reliable way to detect cancer before it becomes palpable, when treatment is most effective.

EUSOBI 2022 screening recommendations: Annual mammography from age 40, Concurrent ultrasound for type C or D breast density, MRI for high-risk women from age 25 (add mammography from age 35 to 40). Supplemental MRI for dense breast tissue every 2 to 3 years

At Cape Radiology, our Women’s Wellness Department provides comprehensive breast imaging, including Digital Mammography, 3D Automated Breast Ultrasound (ABUS), Breast MRI, and Image-guided Biopsies, supported by a team of dedicated radiologists.

With the opening of our new Cure Day Hospital Foreshore branch, we continue our commitment to early detection, advanced imaging, and women’s health.

Prioritise your health - book your breast screening with Cape Radiology today at 021 799 9939, or 021 761 0036 or email info@caperad.co.za