Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Protecting Your Health, Supporting Your Journey

Every October, the world turns pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, prevention, and support for those affected by breast cancer. For South African families, this month is an opportunity to learn, share, and act together to reduce risk and strengthen community awareness.

At SACLC, our mission is focused on supporting breastfeeding families, but we also recognise that breast health goes far beyond the breastfeeding journey. In fact, breastfeeding has been shown to play a role in reducing breast cancer risk — a connection worth exploring as we shine a light on this important topic.

Detecting Breast Cancer Early

The earlier breast cancer is found, the more treatable it often is. Here are a few steps every woman can take to protect her breast health:

• Know your normal: Get familiar with how your breasts look and feel. Any new lump, change in shape, nipple discharge, or skin dimpling should be checked by a healthcare provider.

• Self-exams: While no longer recommended as a formal screening tool, monthly breast self-awareness checks can help you notice changes early.

• Screening: Mammograms remain the gold standard for early detection. South African guidelines recommend starting at age 40–50, or earlier if you have a strong family history.

• Regular check-ups: Schedule clinical breast exams with your GP, gynaecologist, or healthcare provider as part of routine care.

Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer: What the Research Says

For mothers who are able to breastfeed, there’s good news: research consistently shows that breastfeeding may reduce a woman’s risk of breast cancer.

• A 2002 Lancet study found that the relative risk of breast cancer declined by 4.3% for every 12 months a woman breastfed.

• A 2015 meta-analysis concluded that women who breastfed for more than 12 months reduced their risk of breast cancer by 26% and ovarian cancer by 37%.

• The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) notes that breastfeeding triggers hormonal and tissue changes that may help protect against the disease. It may also help the body clear damaged breast cells that could otherwise become cancerous [BCRF – Breastfeeding and Breast Cancer Risk].

It’s important to remember that breastfeeding is just one piece of the puzzle. Many other factors — including genetics, lifestyle, and age — also influence risk. Choosing not to, or being unable to, breastfeed does not mean you are destined to face breast cancer.

Prevention and Lifestyle Choices - Breast Cancer Awareness

While no one can completely eliminate their risk, small changes in daily life can make a real difference:

• Stay active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of movement each week.

• Eat a balanced diet: More fruit, vegetables, and whole grains; less processed food and red meat.

• Limit alcohol: Even small amounts can increase risk.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Particularly after menopause, when extra body fat can raise oestrogen levels.

• Don’t smoke: Tobacco use is linked to several cancers, including breast cancer.

Finding Support

A breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but no one should face it alone. Support is available:

• Healthcare teams: Oncologists, breast surgeons, and nurses guide diagnosis and treatment.

• Counsellors and support groups: Emotional support can be as vital as medical care.

• Lactation consultants: If you are breastfeeding or planning to, a lactation consultant can help you navigate changes in breast health, surgery recovery, or treatment plans.

• Local resources: Reach out to South African organisations such as CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa), which offers screenings, counselling, and helplines.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about more than pink ribbons — it’s about education, action, and compassion. Whether you are breastfeeding, planning to, or have long weaned, your breast health matters.

This October, let’s take steps — for ourselves, for our families, and for our communities — to raise awareness, share knowledge, and support one another in the journey toward healthier futures.