CANSA addresses shortage of cancer treatment clinics

By Kim Saulse
13 September 2009

The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) is encouraging all women to invest in their health by learning how to detect women's cancers early.

CANSA launched its Lymphoedema programme as part of its women's health campaign to celebrate International Gynaecological Health Day last week.

In a media release, CANSA CEO, Sue Janse van Rensburg says the organization would like to “raise awareness of this challenging complication of cancer treatment, commonly found in women's cancers, causing swelling mostly of the arm and legs from damaged lymph nodes”.

“Our aim is to provide clinics countrywide to address the acute shortage of lymphoedema services," said van Rensburg.

Key leaders from across South Africa attended the event, including South Africa’s First Lady, Mrs Tobeka Madiba-Zuma, who recommitted government to the improvement of women's health and the reduction of maternal death as well as the Queen Mother Semane Molotlegi of Royal Bafokeng.