Self-exams, screening guidelines and breast cancer awareness — empowering SA women with life-saving knowledge.
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See your doctor promptly if you notice any of the following. ⚠️ Most breast symptoms are not cancer — but any new or unusual change should always be assessed by a doctor without delay. Early detection saves lives.
New lump or thickening
Any new lump in the breast or underarm — even painless — should be assessed by a doctor promptly.
Change in breast shape or size
Unexplained swelling, shrinkage or distortion of one breast warrants evaluation.
Skin changes
Dimpling, puckering, redness or an orange-peel texture (peau d'orange) on the breast skin needs urgent review.
Nipple changes
A newly inverted nipple, discharge (especially bloody or from one breast only), or rash around the nipple — see your doctor.
Persistent breast pain
While most breast pain is benign, new, localised or worsening pain that doesn't resolve with your cycle should be checked.
Swollen lymph nodes
Swelling in the armpit or around the collarbone can indicate a breast health concern — seek assessment.
Connect with HPCSA-registered specialists — from gynaecologists to oncologists — across South Africa.
Gynaecologists
Breast exams, referrals & women's health
Radiologists
Mammogram & ultrasound specialists
Oncologists
Breast cancer treatment & management
Breast Surgeons
Lumps, biopsies & surgical care
Genetic Counsellors
BRCA testing & family risk assessment
Plastic Surgeons
Reconstruction & post-treatment care
General Practitioners
First point of contact for breast concerns
Psychologists
Emotional support during diagnosis & treatment
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Start a discussionBreast health is one of the most important areas of women’s preventive healthcare — yet many South African women delay seeking help due to fear, lack of access or uncertainty about what symptoms warrant attention. HealthLab’s Breast Health Hub aims to change that by providing clear, evidence-based information on symptoms, screening and breast cancer awareness, helping you feel informed and empowered to take action.
Most breast symptoms — including lumps, pain, nipple discharge and skin changes — are not cancer. Common benign conditions include fibrocystic changes (lumpy, tender breasts that fluctuate with the menstrual cycle), fibroadenomas (firm, smooth, moveable lumps common in younger women), cysts, mastitis and lipomas. However, no new or unusual breast change should be dismissed without medical assessment. Early evaluation is always the right choice — if something has changed, see your doctor.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in South African women. The South African guidelines recommend that women at average risk begin annual mammography from age 40. Women with a strong family history or known BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations may need to begin screening earlier and may require MRI in addition to mammography. Monthly breast self-examination, while no longer recommended as a formal screening method, helps women become familiar with their normal breast tissue so they can detect changes promptly.
South Africa has one of the highest breast cancer mortality rates in the world — largely due to late-stage diagnosis. Understanding your personal risk factors (including family history, age, hormonal factors, alcohol use, obesity and lack of physical activity), knowing the warning signs, and committing to regular screening are the most powerful tools available for reducing your risk of dying from breast cancer. If you are diagnosed, South Africa has oncology centres across the country offering surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapies. HealthLab’s professional directory can help you find the right specialist wherever you are.
