Rapid increase in breast cancer patients

THE rapid increase in breast cancer patients in the Sultanate is a result of increase in awareness of the local community on the illness, said a senior community health nurse yesterday.

Matron Hjh Jaliha Momin informed The Brunei Times that a total of 159 cases of breast cancer had been identified in Brunei between the years 2002 to 2008. "This growth is caused mainly by the increase of awareness among the people. We hold roadshows and show them the correct techniques on how to do breast self-examinations so that when they feel any lumps, they know that it is important to have it checked immediately," she said during yesterday's "Wear Pink Day" event. It was organised by the Centre for British Teachers (CfBT) at their headquarters, in conjunction with breast cancer awareness month.

"We also have breast cancer survivors who share their knowledge and experience so it is very helpful," she added before touching on the prevalence of breast cancer among the males in the country.

According to an earlier news report, four cases of breast cancer in men have been reported in Brunei for the past 10 years. This number is expected to rise if the Sultanate's unhealthy lifestyle remains unchanged.

"A male's breast is different from a female, it is flatter which makes it easier to identify any lumps," she said, adding that men should also do regular checkups like once a month.

According to the senior community health nurse, the age group most susceptible to getting breast cancer is between 35 and 55 however, there have been cases involving individuals as young as 20-years-old.

Early signs and symptoms of breast cancer, she explained, include a lump or swelling around the armpit areas, the nipple sinking into the breast, a change in the size or shape of one or both breasts or discharge from the nipple.

"This is why it is very important for people to know how to carry out proper breast self-examination techniques because your hands will be the key to save your life," said the nurse.

She added that there is a 97 per cent chance of a woman surviving if she did a self-breast examination on a monthly basis.

She added that apart from carrying out self monthly checks, one can also practice leading a healthy lifestyle by eating right and carrying out regular exercise, "But even those who lead a healthy lifestyle are at risk," she said.

Breast cancer is the highest cause of death due to carcinogenic diseases among women in the country, followed by cervical cancer.

The Brunei Times