Every August, South Africa celebrates the courage of the thousands of women who marched in 1956 to demand dignity, equality and basic human rights. Yet, 70 years later, another battle continues—one where access to life-saving healthcare can still determine whether a woman survives breast cancer.
Despite significant advances in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, access to timely healthcare remains unequal across the country. For millions of South African women, particularly those relying on the public healthcare system, barriers to screening, diagnosis and treatment continue to delay care, reducing the chances of early intervention and successful outcomes.
As Women’s Month shines a spotlight on equality, healthcare professionals say improving access to breast health services has never been more important.
Access Still Determines Outcomes
South Africa’s healthcare landscape remains deeply divided.
While approximately 16% of South Africans have access to private healthcare, around 84% rely on the public healthcare system, where access to specialised screening, diagnostic services and treatment can be constrained by broader resource pressures.
The consequences are reflected in breast cancer statistics.
Research shows that between 50% and 57% of women diagnosed with breast cancer in South Africa are only identified once the disease has reached a late stage, significantly reducing survival chances while increasing the risk of recurrence.
The challenge is not that breast cancer cannot be detected early. Instead, many women still struggle to access the information, screening services and healthcare support needed to receive an early diagnosis.
According to Dr Renata Maharaj, Head of Medical Affairs at Novartis South Africa, improving access must remain a national priority.
“Early detection can make a significant difference to breast cancer outcomes, but this is only possible when women are able to access the care and support they need. Encouraging greater awareness of breast health, while improving access to screening and diagnostic services, remains critical to helping more women receive a diagnosis before the disease progresses.”
South Africa’s Most Common Cancer Among Women
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting women in South Africa, with a lifetime risk of one in every 27 women.
Medical experts agree that early detection remains one of the most effective ways to improve treatment outcomes.
However, access to healthcare services often depends on where a woman lives.
Limited screening facilities, diagnostic delays and broader healthcare resource constraints continue to create barriers that contribute to late diagnoses and poorer outcomes, particularly for women who depend on the public healthcare system.
The Challenge of Late Diagnosis
The impact of unequal access is evident across the country.
A study conducted at the specialist breast cancer clinic at Mankweng Hospital in Limpopo found that 76% of patients presented with late-stage disease.
Researchers identified limited breast cancer awareness and delayed presentation for medical care as some of the major reasons behind late diagnoses.
The findings reinforce the need for greater public education alongside improved healthcare access.
Ensuring women receive timely information about breast health can encourage earlier medical consultation when changes are noticed.
Expanding Access Beyond Hospitals
Healthcare experts believe improving outcomes requires more than strengthening hospitals alone.
Across South Africa, organisations continue working to expand breast cancer awareness, education and screening services, particularly in underserved communities where healthcare resources remain limited.
In many areas, access to screening facilities is still unavailable or difficult to reach.
To help address these challenges, some organisations have adopted mobile healthcare approaches, bringing screening and health services directly into communities where cost and distance often prevent women from accessing care.
These initiatives help reduce barriers while making healthcare more accessible for women who might otherwise go without essential screening.
Knowing Your Body Can Save Your Life
While healthcare access remains critical, experts emphasise that personal awareness also plays an essential role.
Women are encouraged to become familiar with what is normal for their own bodies and to seek medical advice if they notice unusual changes.
These may include:
- A lump in the breast
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes
- Persistent breast discomfort
Recognising these signs early and consulting a healthcare professional can support earlier diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes.
Breast Health Doesn’t End After Treatment
Completing breast cancer treatment represents an important milestone, but experts stress that ongoing care remains equally important.
Although many women go on to live healthy and fulfilling lives after treatment, regular follow-up appointments help healthcare professionals monitor long-term health and identify any concerns as early as possible.
Dr Maharaj says continued engagement with healthcare providers remains essential because recurrence remains a possibility for some patients.
“The risk of recurrence remains a reality for some patients, which is why ongoing monitoring and follow-up care continue to play an important role after treatment. Staying engaged with your healthcare team and attending recommended follow-up appointments can help ensure that any concerns are identified and addressed as early as possible.”
Encouraging a Culture of Breast Health
To encourage greater awareness, Novartis South Africa has launched the #LoveTheBreast campaign.
The initiative aims to inspire women to prioritise their breast health throughout every stage of life by encouraging open conversations, raising awareness about early detection and motivating women to seek screening where possible.
Supported by female sports advocates, the campaign also encourages women to pay attention to changes in their bodies while remaining actively involved in their healthcare journey.
For Dr Maharaj, breast health extends well beyond diagnosis and treatment.
“Breast health is about more than screening or treatment; it is about creating a culture of awareness, openness and proactive care. When women have access to information, support and healthcare services, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. Every conversation about breast health is an opportunity to encourage awareness, understanding and action.”
As South Africa reflects on Women’s Month, the message is clear: meaningful progress towards equality must include equitable access to healthcare. Earlier detection, greater awareness and improved access to breast cancer services could help ensure that more women receive the care they need when it matters most.
