Author: Swaziland Breast Cancer Network

BREAST CANCER
SCREENING
The Swaziland Breast Cancer Network runs 2 breast care clinics every week, where you can
receive a breast examination by a health
professional. These include:
Tuesday 9am – 1pm at
Manzini City Council
and
Thursday 9am – 1pm at Room 4,
Mbabane Government Hospital
If an abnormality is detected, the doctor may request that you undergo one or more of the following tests:
A blood test
An ultrasound of the breast
A small biopsy of the breast lump
Remember, most lumps are not
cancer, but all abnormalities should be checked by a doctor immediately.
TREATMENTS
Breast cancer can be treated in a number of ways, and may include one or more of the following:
Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiotherapy
In the event that an individual is diagnosed with breast cancer, the Swaziland Breast Cancer Network can provide support, guidance and counseling to the affected person
and their family.

The Swaziland Breast Cancer Network (SBCN) aims to:
Raise awareness about breast cancer, because this disease is increasing in Swaziland.
Promote breast self-examination to help in early diagnosis and treatment.
Provide support and counselling or those affected by breast cancer.
Work closely with the medical community to make cancer treatments accessible and affordable for the people of Swaziland.
Engage in fund-raising activities to support the work of the Network.
Undertake & promote breast cancer research.

Swaziland Breast Cancer Network (SBCN)

For further information contact
Phone: 404 9270 and 551 4476
Fax: 551 4476
Email: sbcn@realnet.co.sz
www.swazilandbreastcancer.org

Breast Health:
Caring
For Yourself
Early detection of breast cancer is the key

WHAT IS BREAST
CANCER?

Breast cancer occurs when unhealthy cells grow in the breast. Breast cancer is affecting a growing number of women in Swaziland. This includes women in their 40s, 50s and 60s, but also young women in their 20s and 30s. When breast cancer is found and treated in its early stages, a woman has a greater chance of
long-term survival.
.

WHAT CAN I DO TO
REDUCE MY RISK?

Early detection is the key
By doing a Breast Self-Examination (BSE) every month you will get to know your breasts; their shape, size and feel.
Most breast changes are not cancerous, but if you find one, you should be checked by a doctor immediately.
When to do a
Breast Self-Examination (BSE)
All women should do a BSE every month
Young women should do a BSE one week after their monthly period.
After menopause pick the same day each month to do a BSE.

STEPS OF BREAST
SELF-EXAMINATION

Step 1: While Washing Yourself

In the shower or bath explore your breast and underarm. Raise one arm behind your head & use the flattened
fingers of the other hand to feel for lumps or bumpy areas. Start at the nipple and move outwards in a circular pattern, finishing under your armpit. Repeat on the opposite breast.

Step 2: Before a Mirror

Stand in front of a mirror and look at each breast separately. Raise your arms above your head. Look for any changes on your skin or in the size or shape of your breasts or nipples.

Step 3: Lying Down

Lie down with one arm behind your head. Use the flattened fingers of the other hand to feel for any lumps or bumpy areas in the opposite breast and armpit,. Start at the nipple and move in a
circular pattern as in Step 1.

OTHER WAYS TO REDUCE YOUR RISK

1. Self-examine your breasts every month.
2. Have a health professional examine your breasts once a year, or whenever you have a concern.
3. Walk or join in other exercise regularly,
at least 3 times per week.
4. Eat a low fat diet.
5. Don’t become overweight.
6. Don’t smoke cigarettes.
Note that women with a family history of breast cancer are at higher risk .

It is normal for breasts to change at different times during your life such as:
When you have your monthly period
When you are pregnant
When you gain or lose weight
When your periods stop (menopause)
Changes that are not normal and should be
examined by a health professional include:
A dimple
Changes in color or size
The skin becomes thick or hard
A change in the nipple
Blood coming from the nipple
A new lump in the breast or underarm
.

WARNING SIGNS OF
BREAST CANCER