A growing crisis: Breast cancer cases surge nearly 20% in just two years
Every year, thousands of lives are impacted by breast cancer. As cases rise in South Africa, the call for heightened awareness and proactive health measures has never been more urgent.
Image: Unsplash
As the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, new statistics from Bestmed Medical Scheme paint a troubling picture of cancer diagnoses in South Africa, with breast cancer emerging as a leading concern.
The scheme’s internal data reveals a staggering rise in breast cancer cases among its members, from 1,281 in 2023 to 1,511 in 2025, marking nearly a 20% increase in only two years.
This unsettling trend is not isolated to breast cancer. Other cancers, including prostate cancer, witnessed a dramatic increase as well, rising from 1,149 to 1,460 cases, along with colon and renal cancers, which jumped from 384 to 505 cases.
These figures underscore an urgent necessity for public awareness regarding early screening, lifestyle changes, and access to timely medical interventions.
Globally, cancer continues to pose a grave threat; every minute, four women worldwide are diagnosed with breast cancer, with one succumbing to the disease in that same time frame.
As experts project that by 2050, breast cancer cases could increase by nearly 40% and associated deaths by over 60%, the situation becomes increasingly dire.
“Every breast cancer diagnosis represents more than a number – it’s a deeply personal story,” says Denelle Morais, Manager: Marketing & Communication at Bestmed Medical Scheme.
Morais said this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month theme, ‘Every story is unique, every journey matters,’ serves as a poignant reminder that behind each diagnosis lies a journey filled with courage, hope, and resilience.
Breast cancer, characterised by the uncontrollable growth of breast cells, can lead to the formation of lumps or tumours that may spread if not detected early. Although predominantly affecting women, men are not entirely exempt, making awareness critical for all.
Morais emphasises, “The rise in breast and other cancer diagnoses among our members underscores a critical message – awareness and early detection save lives. When caught early, breast cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer, greatly enhancing survival rates.”
Bestmed calls on all South Africans to implement preventive measures and prioritise early detection:
- Perform regular self-examinations and schedule routine mammograms.
- Adopt healthy lifestyle habits, such as balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and reducing alcohol and tobacco intake.
- Seek immediate medical advice if any breast changes or irregularities are noticed.
“Breast cancer awareness is more than just wearing pink – it’s about saving lives,” concludes Morais.
“Every screening, every early check, and every conversation about prevention could be a difference-maker. Every individual affected must receive care that is not only clinical but fundamentally personal.”
IOL