Northern Cape Department of Health Raises Awareness On Breast Cancer In Communities Across The Province

In its sustained efforts to address the increasing incidence of breast cancer among young people, the Provincial Health Department marked October with a range of activities focused on cancer awareness, early detection, patient support, staff wellness and community engagement.

A key focus this year is reaching young women and the broader community with information on breast cancer and women’s health. The Department continue to implement evidence based strategies and expand platforms that improve equitable access to cancer prevention and control services across the Province.

Oncology Services in the Province are largely centralised at Robert Mangaliso Sobukwe Tertiary Hospital in Kimberley, with decentralised service models already implemented at Dr Harry Surtie Regional Hospital, Kuruman District Hospital and Dr Van Niekerk Hospital in Springbok. These facilities continue to see patients presenting with cancer at advanced stages, highlighting the importance of recognising concerning changes early and seeking medical attention without delay.

Breast Cancer is another common women’s health threat which is more aggressive disease than prostate and cervical cancer, with over 3600 cases recorded provincially in 2025/2026 financial year. It is as a result that we encourage young women in particular and men over 40 years to request screening on an annual basis and be treated on time. Thus, the emphasis is on couple screening, as early diagnosis increases the chances of beating the disease.

A diagnosis of cancer continues to be viewed as life threatening illness among many communities. This view is driven by stigma, limited public awareness, and challenges in accessing prevention, diagnosis and treatment services, particularly in a geographically vast province.

Throughout October month, the Oncology Department will host and support a number of awareness and educational activities, including Breast Cancer Awareness Month. These observances highlight that cancer care extends beyond medical treatment and includes nutrition, rehabilitation, psychological and social support, palliative care, survivorship and overall wellbeing.

The month will conclude in a Breast Cancer Awareness Event on 30 October 2026, bringing together patients, families, healthcare workers, community members and supporting organisations under the message of Hope, Strength and Courage.

All our efforts are aligned with the National Strategic Plan for Prevention and Control of Non- Communicable Diseases 2022-2027, which focuses on five major NCD groups, namely; cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, Diabetes and mental health.

These are driven by five core risk factors (tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, harmful use of alcohol and air pollution). Our national theme is ‘Leave No One Behind’ which has also been adopted by the Northern Cape Province.

The Department advises women to examine their breasts regularly and if they feel any abnormalities, they should seek help at the clinics and hospitals promptly without any delay.