Check Know Prevent launched

GEORGE NEWS - Thirteen out of 15 women discover their own breast cancer, which is why doing self breast examination regularly is vital, according to Kathy Malherbe, medical journalist and PR specialist for Check Know Prevent.

Malherbe was part of a line-up of speakers at the local launch of Check Know Prevent, held last Thursday evening at One Forest Road.

There was also a line-up of speakers that addressed medical practitioners as part of continuous professional development organised by Pathcare.

Check Know Prevent, founded by Jenny de Oliveira, is a non-profit organisation whose mission it is to increase the breast cancer survival rate through educating women about regular breast examination. Malherbe said cancer in South Africa is predicted to rise by 78% by 2030. "Survival rates show that the earlier you diagnose it, the better your chances of survival. We want women to take responsibility for their own health."

Check Know Prevent raises funds through manufacturing and marketing a lovely bra range with tips and illustrations on how to do self-examination and what to look out for. "They serve as a daily reminder," said Malherbe. "Check Know Prevent at the same time provides jobs to the designer and seamstresses who do the manufacturing."

Risk factors

Clinical and radiation oncologist Dr Lee-Ann Jones of the Outeniqua Oncology Unit spoke about the risk factors for breast cancer and the role genes play. She said some people get cancer even though they follow a healthy lifestyle. She highlighted the BRCA 1 and 2 gene mutation which accounts for 6% of breast cancers and 15% of ovarian cancer diagnoses. Testing for the gene has advanced and it can accurately predict one's cancer risk. She also stressed the importance of an annual or at least biannual mammogram. Statistics prove the increase in survival rate where breast cancer is treated from an early stage.

Psychiatrist Dr Olga Scholtz held a talk about the psychological effect of breast cancer. She said patients are in a vulnerable state and medical practitioners sometimes forget that, because they encounter cases on a daily basis and "get used to it". "It should always be remembered that everyone wants love. Often a patient just needs a willing ear to listen while they unpack their emotions. We must learn to listen."

Dr Engela Lange touched on the topic of patient autonomy in decision-making about treatment. The patient is the one who makes the final decision about receiving treatment or not, even if it is to their own detriment.

The evening was concluded with delicious eats and drinks in the superb, double-storey venue where Shampu Hair Studio and Eden Medispa are housed.

For more about Check Know Prevent, or to buy bras, visit https://checkknowprevent.com, or phone Jennifer de Oliveira, founder and director, on 081 346 0169 or Lorraine Botha on 083 415 0045.

Enjoying the launch of Check Know Prevent, from left: Dr Adri Hofmeister (Eden Medispa), Dr Leonie Schoeman, Dr Emmie Verster and Petro van Huyssteen (owner of Shampu).

Dr Ansua Steyn (left) was master of ceremonies. With her are the speakers, from left: Dr Engela Lange, Dr Olga Scholtz, Kathy Malherbe and Dr Lee-Ann Jones. Photo: Wessel van Heerden INSET: Check Know Prevent founder and director Jenny de Oliveira (left) and Lorraine Verhagen, head of events and admin, at the bra stand. Photo: Alida de Beer