Business Brief

In today’s rapidly evolving world, women increasingly find themselves in demanding professional roles while simultaneously fulfilling their responsibilities as caregivers and nurturers. It is common for females to prioritise the well-being of their families, colleagues and communities above their own self-care. This is not something we deliberately choose; it is part of our blueprint.

As we end October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is an opportune moment to underscore the importance of self-care for women and emphasise the critical role that regular screenings play in female health.

Women have long been recognised for their remarkable ability to multitask, manage their own careers, keep track of meetings both professionally and personally, manage school commitments, projects and extracurricular activities while managing a household, partnership, social status and keeping up with what the world expects the “perfect woman” to look and act like.

This constant juggling act can exact a toll on their mental, emotional and physical well-being.

We live in an age where we are told to have everything, be everything to everyone and excel at everything. What is not disclosed is that there is a hefty price to pay if we do not find a balance and do not stop to “check in” with ourselves. Burnout and neglect of self-care can have no positive outcome for anyone. We need to be physically and mentally healthy to be all we want to be for everyone around us. Me before you.

For women, regular health check-ups, including breast cancer screenings, should be a non-negotiable element of their self-care regimen. Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer among women globally, underlining the imperative of early detection through screenings.

Renowned actress and advocate for women’s health, Angelina Jolie, is a powerful example of proactive health measures. Jolie, who underwent a double mastectomy due to her heightened risk of breast cancer, affirmed, “I do not view this as diminishing my femininity. On the contrary, it empowers me to have made a resolute choice for my health.”

Early detection is a woman’s strongest defence against the ravages of breast cancer. Mammograms, clinical breast exams and breast self-examinations are invaluable tools in identifying potential issues before they escalate into life-threatening concerns. Regrettably, many women neglect these screenings due to busy schedules or apprehensions about the unknown.

Influential public figures such as Oprah Winfrey have consistently emphasised the importance of regular screenings. Winfrey asserts, “I implore women to become their most steadfast advocates for their own breast health. It is not just about undergoing mammograms but also about understanding the results and their implications.”

As we commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let us remember that self-care is not an act of selfishness but rather a fundamental element of one’s capacity to care for others effectively. Women must elevate their own well-being and embrace routine health screenings as a means of preserving their health. Put yourself first for those around you.

By: Driensie Coetzee – Technical Marketing Specialist

PPS is a licensed insurer conducting life insurance business, a licensed controlling company and an authorised FSP.