The E-Center for women’s cancers and maternal health strongly believes that
Many cancers are treatable, when detected early.
Screening looks for early signs of cancer or pre-cancerous conditions before any symptoms appear.
It can help spot cancers at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be successful and the chances of survival are much better. Hence, screening has been the core objective of our cancer screening program.
The top five most commonly occurring cancers in South Africa are the Breast, Lung, Cervical, Colorectal, and Prostate. Together, they account for a higher percentage of all cancers in South Africa and constitute a public health priority. Screening is effective in the prevention and early detection of Breast cancer, Lung cancer, Cervical cancer, Colorectal cancer, and Prostate cancer.
CHRIS HANI BARAGWANATH ACADEMIC HOSPITAL: SOWETO COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTRE (MEDICAL ONCOLOGY UNIT) TEAMS UP WITH THE E-CENTER FOR WOMEN’S CANCER TO CONDUCT ONLINE CANCER SELF-SCREENING FOR MALES AND FEMALES.
The objectives of cancer screening
- To conduct a specialized check-up for males and females in all population segments.
- Create awareness about cancer, its risk factors, the the importance of early cancer detection, and the need for regular screening.
We also create awareness about palliative care and its benefits.
Coverage area
The cancer screening service is conducted in the following service centers:
- Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (Soweto)
- Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (Parktown)
- Helen Joseph Hospital (Auckland Park)
- Lilian Ngoyi (Primary Health Care) and feeder clinics (Soweto)
- Stretford (Primary Health Care) and feeder clinics (Orange Farm)
Operations
The examination is conducted by qualified medical personnel and technicians of Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital: Soweto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Medical Oncology Unit)
The following tests and examinations are conducted at the service centers
- Complete oral examination for men and women
- Clinical breast examination and gynaecological examination
- Pap smear for women
- Mammography for women
Individual reports of the screening service are made available to the beneficiaries within 15 working days. In case of suspected cases, a call is made to the individuals requesting them to undergo further examination at a hospital. (CHBAH): Soweto Comprehensive Cancer Centre (Medical Oncology Unit) ensures follow-up to take the maximum number of suspect cases to a logical conclusion. Assistance is provided for the same.