Breast cancer is the most common cancer to be diagnosed among women in South Africa and while it is most often diagnosed in women over 40, Liberty's claim statistics for 2022 showed a noticeable increase in diagnoses in younger women.
In this some 12% of breast cancer claims met by the insurer last year were from women aged between 31 and 41 years old.
To put this into perspective, numbers released by Stats SA showed females aged 30 to 39 years accounted for 9% of breast cancer cases.
"It would not be fair to judge this as a sign of increasing cases among younger women because this would need much more research, but what we at Liberty can say here is that it is likely a sign that more younger women are getting tested for breast cancer. And this is a very positive development," says Dr Lungile Mabanga, Liberty Medical Officer.
"According to Liberty's own figures, almost half of all cancer claims in 2022 from women, some 49%, were for breast cancer. So this is why getting tested is so important because catching it early makes a big difference."
Breast cancer is a condition that if caught early can be treated with a better degree of success, although in some cases an extended period of recovery may be required if caught at a later stage.
Liberty, as an insurer, offers the Living Lifestyle benefit which in this case pays a lump sum, except for the earliest stages of cancer, as well as an income protection benefit should patients not be able to work temporarily as a result of this diagnosis.
"Life cover is also important as this provides protection for families, should the worst happen to a bread winner, bearing in mind that many homes are now female led in this country."
To lower the risk of breast cancer, living a healthy lifestyle, being aware of your weight and avoiding smoking and alcohol abuse are sensible choices.
If you have a family history of breast cancer, meaning your mother, grandmother or anyone connected to you by birth have had it, your chances of getting breast cancer are increased and you would be advised to begin checks earlier than 40. If you are over this age and you have this family history, consult your doctor on how often you need to have check-ups.
While not all changes in the breast should be regarded as signs of cancer, they should be checked and not ignored. Such changes may be a lump, but may also be skin or nipple changes or discharge, discomfort or pain in the breast.
To see how you can check yourself for potential signs of breast cancer, this link to the Cancer Association of South Africa can help.
"Even if all risk factors are managed correctly, increasing age is the most important factor, thus the need to keep in touch with your doctor regularly, to identify changes early," Dr Mabanga says.
Making a difference
Liberty has partnered with the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) to help raise awareness and screen for breast cancer. The partnership sees Liberty sponsoring mobile screening clinics, as well as getting involved in efforts to educate people about early detection and testing.
"Breast cancer is one of the leading cancers affecting women in South Africa, and indeed this trend can be seen globally. Regular self-examination and being aware of any breast changes, together with regular testing, are the best possible ways to detect this condition early and provide the best chance of recovery."
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