By: Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MASERU – Cancer is reportedly a disease characterized by the abnormal growth of cells that can spread to different parts of the body. It develops when the body’s normal control mechanisms fail, causing cells to divide uncontrollably and form masses known as tumors.
These malignant cells can invade tissues and, in advanced cases, spread to other organs through the bloodstream otherwise known as the lymphatic system.
According to the American Cancer Society and Cancer Research UK, cancer encompasses a wide range of diseases, classified mainly into categories based on the tissue type where they originate. Carcinomas arise from epithelial tissues and include subtypes such as adenocarcinomas, squamous cell carcinomas, and basal cell carcinomas, affecting organs and skin.
Sarcomas affect the bones and muscles, while leukaemias develop in the blood and bone marrow, impacting white blood cells. Lymphomas also involve the immune system. Cancers can also affect the brain and spinal cord, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Skin cancers include melanoma and Merkel cell carcinoma.
Early detection and intervention are crucial, as cancer often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing at a later stage.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, with the World Health Organisation (WHO) reporting approximately 2.3 million new cases and 670,000 deaths in 2022.
Presenting at a Breast Cancer Awareness Webinar organised by Ntlafatso Foundation last week, Dr Nthabeleng Molupe noted that breast cancer affects both men and women, though women account for the majority of cases.
According to statistics, breast cancer is especially prevalent in higher-income countries, where 1 in 12 women is likely to be diagnosed in her lifetime. These statistics highlight a significant global health challenge, as breast cancer rates are rising in many parts of the world, including regions with limited access to treatment and screening facilities.
Dr Molupe outlined the risk factors for developing breast cancer, dividing them into modifiable (controllable) and non-modifiable (uncontrollable) factors.
She explained that modifiable factors include excessive alcohol consumption; for instance, women who drink two to three drinks daily have a 20% higher risk of developing cancer than those who do not drink. Obesity is another risk factor, along with early menstruation, late menopause, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and low physical activity.
Non-modifiable factors include genetic predispositions, with 5-10% of cases due to inherited genetic mutations. Age also plays a role, as older people have a higher risk of developing cancer, and women are inherently more prone to breast cancer due to their physiology.
To minimise breast cancer risks, Dr Molupe recommended regular exercise, reducing alcohol intake, and maintaining a healthy weight.
‘Mamahlako Lekhatla, founder of the Action Against Cancer Association, a group raising awareness, providing support, and advocating for improved cancer care, shared her own experience as a cancer survivor. In 2015, she noticed a brownish discharge from her breasts, which caused concern but did not initially signal the start of her battle with cancer.
It was her grandson’s remark that the discharge was ‘disgusting’ that prompted her to seek medical attention. This small moment marked the beginning of a long and challenging journey of diagnosis and treatment. Her diagnosis was life-altering, setting her on a path fraught with emotional strain and financial hardship.
Lekhatla’s experience exposed the significant gaps in support services and resources for cancer patients in Lesotho. She recognised the critical need for accessible counselling services, comprehensive cancer education, and financial assistance, all of which are essential for a reliable support system during treatment.
Her journey inspired her to turn her struggles into a cause, offering support for others facing similar challenges.
A cancer survivor, ‘Makampo ‘Matumelo Motseki, shared her journey to treatment, describing it as filled with challenges and difficulties. She said the treatment is painful, but she finally made it through. Motseki has since become an advocate for support services for those experiencing cancer.
Motseki recalls that on March 24, 2012, a day before her birthday, she received the results confirming her cancer diagnosis, which she described as “the storm of my life.”
“In the middle of my battle, all hope was gone,” she said.
She emphasised that cancer patients should rely on prayer for strength. She added that family support and patience are essential, as the treatment is excruciating. Motseki advised cancer patients to adhere faithfully to prescribed medication and follow dietary recommendations.
“You must never miss your check-ups. Listen to your body. If you need to rest, then rest, even if the house is untidy,” she shared.
Motseki also encouraged cancer patients to accept their condition. “We plead with our government to provide social grants for cancer patients because they are often unable to work during treatment. Even basic tasks like bathing and brushing teeth become daunting,” she pleaded.
She also called for government-provided counselling for patients’ families and spouses. Additionally, she urged the government to increase access to diagnostic tests to detect the disease earlier.
Motseki highlighted that sometimes Lesotho patients in Bloemfontein lack even basic necessities like food. She appealed for government assistance, noting that some patients struggle to afford transport money for check-ups.
Motseki also mentioned the need for assistance with post-surgery body care, such as providing bras and artificial breasts for those who have undergone mastectomies, to help women maintain their confidence and body image.
She urged the government to fund cancer care, emphasising that cancer is one of the most costly diseases. She also appealed for reduced laboratory fees, especially at private facilities, to encourage more people to seek early detection. During her treatment, she recalls meeting a four-year-old patient and feeling deep sympathy for the young child who endured painful injections.
Motseki suggested that treatment centres should offer supportive devices, especially for children, to help them with schoolwork and provide entertainment to distract them from their illness.