How we as PPS can contribute to Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Brief Content 1

October marks the observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an occasion dedicated to the dissemination of information and awareness surrounding breast cancer, along with providing support to individuals grappling with this illness.

According to the World Health Organisation, breast cancer is the most diagnosed, with 2.26 million new cases diagnosed in 2020¹. South Africa follows a similar trend, with breast cancer being the most prevalent cancer in females, accounting for 23% of all cancers diagnosed, according to the National Cancer Registry².

Although certain risk factors such as family history, obesity, alcohol and tobacco use and postmenopausal hormone therapy increase the risk for breast cancer, approximately 50% of breast cancers develop in women with no identifiable risk factors other than being female³. Therefore, awareness, education and screening play a pivotal role in the early detection and treatment of the condition. Over the years, the introduction of widespread screening programmes has reduced the death rates from breast cancer by 28%⁴.

Screening involves conducting tests to detect cancer before any signs or symptoms manifest. It is advisable for every woman to engage in regular self-examinations and promptly consult with their doctor if they observe any abnormalities. Women over the age of 40 should also go for annual mammogram screenings. If a woman has additional risk factors, like a family history of breast cancer, it is essential to have a discussion with their doctor since it may necessitate more frequent screenings. Cancers found during screening tend to be smaller and less likely to have spread outside the breast. Thus, the rates of successful treatment are higher in these cases.

The PPS claims history has also shown that breast cancer is the most common cancer claimed by our female members. Similar to how screening is essential for improving survival outcomes, it is equally important to raise awareness about the necessity of having appropriate financial coverage in case of such a diagnosis. PPS offers a diverse range of products, including the PPS Critical Illness Cover, designed to alleviate the financial strain linked to severe illnesses like cancer. Additionally, the PPS Sickness and Permanent Incapacity benefit ensures a source of income during times of illness.

Despite advances in screening methods, 15% to 20% of breast cancers form an aggressive subtype which spreads to other organs faster and, therefore, is associated with a poorer prognosis and higher mortality rates⁵. These aggressive cancers also tend to affect younger women, usually in their 40s⁶. Life cover is essential to provide financial support to dependents for potential financial losses. Securing a child’s future with the PPS Education Cover should be considered by those women with young children.

Treatment for breast cancer has come a long way since the first radical mastectomy done in 1882, which was the first evidence-based treatment option for treating breast tumours. It then became the gold standard of treatment⁷. These days, the advances in genetic and molecular profiling have led to the development of targeted therapies which allow for more personalised treatment with fewer side effects than conventional chemotherapy.

These novel targeted therapies are, however, costly and often not covered by medical aids. A study in the US found that the average spend on targeted therapy for advanced-stage breast cancer increased from $1 000 (R19 271) in 2000 to $19 000 (R366 147) in 2015⁸. PPS’s unique EXACT Rider benefit is available to members with the PPS Critical Illness Cover and pays a lump sum if the cancer is proven to be susceptible to targeted therapy. This makes these novel agents more accessible to PPS members.

While our focus has primarily been on breast cancer in females, it is important to remember that it can occur, albeit rarely, in men. Due to the rarity and lack of routine screening, breast cancer in men is often diagnosed late and tends to have a higher mortality rate. Although rare, we should strive for better awareness and education in this population.

This year, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, PPS played its role by living up to the PPS mission of enhancing financial security by spreading awareness of the risks of breast cancer and how it can be reduced.

Click here for more information on breast cancer, which can be shared with members.