BinduMed Issue 4

BREAST CANCER OPHTHALMOLOGY DIET INFORMATION CENTRE

Issue 4

Issue 4 BinduMed

Contents

4Mental Health Issues in Breast 7Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Editor’s Note
Cancer Patients and Survivors Risk Factors and Treatment
As we mark the beginning of Pink
October also known as Breast Cancer
Awareness Month, we are reminded of
the importance of early testing, a key
step to diagnosis of Breast Cancer.

BinduMed has dedicated this Issue to
raising awareness, by informing you of
the risks, causes, signs and symptoms
of Breast Cancer. We also take a look
at the Mental Health of cancer patients
and survivors, noting that they too
need each and everyone’s support to
beat this “frightful disease”. Featured
for nutritional awareness is a special
healthy diet that can reduce the
development or recurrence of breast
cancer .

9Skin Disorders and Wearing 11#LoveYourEyes The Cancer Association of Zimbabwe
A Mask shares with us steps that can help
women self check for any lumps and
14Nutritional support for Publisher signs of Breast Cancer. However,
cancer survivors Mike Garden screening is always important because
[email protected] early detection can help fight the
024-2782720/1/7 disease.
On the 14th of October we also
Editor celebrate World EyeSight Day which
Michelle Matswayi will be celebrated under the theme
[email protected] Love Your Eyes. The article takes us
0771 715 804 through various eye problems we tend
to face during summer and reasons
Advertising to see an Opthamologist. SeeClear
Amanda Manyarara Institute will be offering free eye
[email protected] screening on the day.
0772 443 638 As we raise awareness for Breast
Layout & Design Cancer, I hope that you remember to
Wilbroad. I.B. Mbofana wear PINK and donate towards the
[email protected] cause.
0779 540 202

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to check the content of articles, the directors will not be held responsible for any errors or
omissions therein. We accept that all articles and photographs submitted are the sole responsibility of the authors and
we do not accept liability for any misrepresentation. Events, dates and prices listed are printed using information supplied
to us that we are satisfied are correct at the time of printing. This publication is the exclusive property of Ndeipi (Pvt) Ltd.

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Issue 4 BinduMed

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Issue 4 BinduMed Sources of mental health
problems for breast cancer
Mental Health patients and survivors
Issues in Breast
Cancer Patients and The Cancer Association of Zimbabwe
Survivors offers psycho-social support for breast
cancer patients knowing fully well that
Lovemore Makurirofa (Occupational health (UZ), Social it is very common for breast cancer
Work (WUA)) patients to experience mental health
Junior Mavu (RGN, Bsc Nursing Sciences, MDS problems such as anxiety and depression.
In Zimbabwe, a situation whereby the
According to the World Health cancer that starts from cells of the breast country records increasing cases of
Organisation, mental health (chest, armpit and upper arm area). In breast cancer in the background of
is a state of well-being in women, it usually starts in the tubes that scarce resources (income, management
which an individual realises carry milk to the nipple (ducts) and glands services, technology) to manage the
his or her own abilities, can that make milk (lobules). The number of cancers is likely to trigger a person into
cope with the normal stresses of life, “panic mode” the moment he/she is
work productively, and is able to make cases worldwide has significantly increased diagnosed of breast cancer. Panicking
a contribution to his or her community. since the 1970s, partly attributable will lead to denial and subsequent delay
Mental health includes our emotional, to modern lifestyles (fat and alcohol to seek treatment services. According to
psychological, and social well-being. It intake, smoking, the changing patterns the Zimbabwe National Cancer Registry,
affects how we think, feel, and act. It also of childbearing and breastfeeding, low about 85% of cancer cases are diagnosed
helps determine how we handle stress, parity). Many people do not realise that very late (at stages 3 and 4), thus, any
relate to others, and make choices. Breast men have breast tissue and that they can further delay in seeking treatment will
cancer patients experience substantial develop breast cancer. One (1) man is further aggravate the problem. Anxiety
psychological distress from diagnosis and expected to develop breast cancer out and depression can emanate from the
treatment as they try to accept and cope of every 100 women who develop the common myths and misconceptions about
with a cancer diagnosis (denial stage). disease. This makes breast cancer more breast cancer and its available treatment
Even after successful treatment cancer than 100 times more common in women modalities. For example, the myth that
survivors often face a number of mental than in men, although males tend to have “breast cancer is incurable, radiotherapy
health issues. Breast cancer survivors poorer treatment outcomes due to delays or chemotherapy kills”, will obviously
may be more likely to experience anxiety, in diagnosis. result in perceived uncertainties soon after
depression, sleep troubles and other In Zimbabwe, breast cancer is the second diagnosis or after treatment is prescribed.
mental health issues than those who have most common cancer in black women These commonly held misconceptions
not been diagnosed with the disease. after cervical cancer. According to the create mental health problems among
Zimbabwe National Cancer Registry (2020) both breast cancer patients and breast
What is Breast Cancer? it contributed 14.3% to the cancer burden cancer survivors. During treatment
among all women and 35.8% among non- cancer, patients experience mental health
Breast cancer is one of the most frequently black women in 2017. According to the problems emanating from perceptions
diagnosed cancers today. It is a type of same source, breast cancer contributed 8% on both cancer and treatment received.
to the number of deaths due to cancer in For example, mastectomy may also result
the country. in mental health challenges for patients
and survivors. Stigma and discrimination
in society also aggravates breast cancer
survivors’ mental health problems.

Mental Health Common
Warning Signs for breast
cancer patients and survivors

•Pulling away from people and usual
activities
•Suicidal tendencies
•Hopelessness
•Refusing any form of help from
family members and professionals
•Having low or no energy
•Feeling numb or like nothing
matters
•Having unexplained aches and pains
•Feeling helpless or hopeless
•Feeling unusually confused,
forgetful, on edge, angry, upset,
worried, or scared
•Experiencing severe mood swings
that cause problems in relationships
•Having persistent disturbing
thoughts and memories you cannot
get out of your head

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Issue 4 BinduMed

Mental Health Tips for
Breast cancer patients and
Survivors

•Know the facts about breast cancer group counselling or being part of of the health practitioners such as doctors,
and its accompanied proven scientific a cancer support group. The Cancer oncologists and surgeons but is also
treatment modalities; Association of Zimbabwe offers these determined by the psychological status
•Receiving professional help. services for free. If you, your friend, relative of the patient which in turn is determined
Individual, family or group supportive have cancer; you may consider some or all by the family and community (for example
counseling is important; of indicated different options of getting churches) support. It is therefore; very
•Open up about your situation and psychosocial support from the Cancer important for the family to support the
find someone to talk to ; Association of Zimbabwe or any other patient as this is the most sustainable way
•Connecting with others. Join a institution of your choice. of providing psychosocial support. We
support group (Online or physical) all have a role to play in strengthening
•Staying positive Psychosocial support is best provided by the ability of families and communities to
•Getting physically active professionals such as clinical psychologists, provide love, care and support for breast
•Helping others with breast cancer social workers, nurse counselors. Most cancer patients and survivors.
or in similar situations. Breast cancer of the psychological challenges affecting
survivors can cope by visiting other cancer patients are a result of the failure by Breast Cancer Support
breast cancer patients and support a partner or family members to understand Groups
them during their treatment journey. the condition of the cancer patients
•Getting enough sleep and the truth about the available cancer The purpose of a support group is to help
•Developing coping skills treatment options. This is exacerbated by people in similar situations share their
common myths and misconceptions about concerns with each other and learn more
The value of breast cancer and its treatments options. about coping and problem-solving. People
psychosocialsupport in All this militate against the success of in a support group can also learn more
dealing with mental health the cancer treatment. Cancer treatment about their cancer and get new ideas from
problems among breast success is therefore, not only in the hands others.
cancer patients and survivors

There is one thing that is common in all
the narratives that cancer survivors tell
to show their bravery in the fight against
cancer- SUPPORT. Cancer patients often
require a lot of SUPPORT for them to be
able to cope with both the cancer itself
and the treatment they receive. Although
there are different dimensions of support
that can be rendered to a cancer patient,
this article focuses on PSYCHOSOCIAL
SUPPORT.
Psychosocial support includes; mental
health counseling, education, group
support and other similar services offered
to improve the psychological and social
wellbeing of those diagnosed with or
affected by cancer. These services are
usually provided by different types of
mental health professionals, spiritualists,
clinical psychologists, cancer survivors
themselves and other people whose roles
are in most cases underestimated in the
health equation.
Cancer can affect the entire family (both
adults and children) in many ways and
as a result, the whole family requires
psychosocial support in order to cope
with the cancer diagnosis of their family
member. Psychosocial support fosters
the resilience of individuals, families and
ultimately communities to deal with breast
cancer, easing the resumption of normal
life after a cancer diagnosis. Breast cancer
survivors should resume back to their
normal life after treatment.
Psychosocial support can be in form of
individual counselling, family counselling,

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Issue 4 BinduMed experience such as cancer survivors and For more information on breast
other patients still going through the same cancer care and support please
The sharing of experiences will enable the treatment procedures and strengthens the contact the Cancer Association of
patient and family to cope and accept the patient’s ability to deal with other people’s Zimbabwe:
diagnosis and make an informed decision negative comments (stigmatisation and
early. It also helps in the re-integration discrimination). During the current COVID
of the patient back into the family and 19 Period we encourage both breast
community support systems. This is the cancer patients and survivors to join the
most sustainable way of helping the online support groups in order to keep
patient to cope with cancer. The support connected to other group members.
group offers an opportunity to share with
others who have gone through the same

2021 October Think Pink Campaign: “Breast The Cancer Association of
Cancer – Not Beyond Us” Zimbabwe
60 Livingstone Harare (Cnr 6th Street
Early detection of breast cancer: How to do and Livingstone Avenue)
Breast Self - Examination ( Steps) Tel: 024 - 2707444 / 2705522/ 2707
482
Description Guiding Pictures Email: [email protected],
[email protected], Website:
1.Stand before the mirror, inspect both www.cancerzimbabwe.org
breasts for any unusual discharge, Facebook: The Cancer Association of
dimpling, scaling, and puckering of the Zimbabwe
skin.
“We are committed to Cancer
2.Watching in the mirror, clasp hands prevention and improving the
behind the head and press head quality of life of patients, their
against hands. This helps to identify families and communities through
any changes in the shape or size as the timeous, cost effective and
muscles contract. evidence based interventions”

3.Press hands on the hips and bend
towards the front or mirror while
pulling shoulders and elbows forward. The
pulling of muscles helps to identify any
abnormalities on the breasts

4.While in the shower, with soapy hands,
lift arm and with four fingers of your
right hand, gradually work from the outer
edge of the breast in small circles towards
the nipple. The circular movements will
help identify any lumps or abnormalities.
Following the same process use your left
hand to examine the right breast.

5.Closely look at the nipples of both
breasts to exclude any discharges,
rashes or scaling.

6.Step 4 and 5 should be repeated by
lying down on the back. With the left
arm over the head, use the right arm to
examine the left breast. With the right
arm over the head, use the left hand to
examine the right breast. The position
flattens the breast making it easier to
examine the breasts for any abnormalities.

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Issue 4 BinduMed

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Issue 4 BinduMed

Breast Cancer: Symptoms, Risk
Factors and Treatment

Dr Nothando C.M. Mutizira Clinical/Radiation Oncologist
MBChB, MMed Rad & Onco

WHAT IS BREAST produce milk and cancers that start healthy weight helps to lower the risk of
CANCER from there are called invasive lobular breast cancer.
cancers.
Breast cancer is a disease in which Hormone replacement therapy- Some
cells in the breast grow out of control. RISK FACTORS FOR forms of hormone replacement therapy,
Cancer starts when something goes DEVELOPING BREAST those that include, both estrogen and
wrong with one’s cells and, they keep CANCER progesterone, taken during menopause
making new cells, while the old or can raise the risk for breast cancer.
abnormal ones do not die when they Risk factors can be modifiable or non-
should. As the cancer cells grow out modifiable; meaning there are some risk Hormonal contraceptives- Certain oral
of control, they can crowd out normal factors one can change and others that contraceptives (birth control pills) and
cells, invade normal tissues and, or one cannot change. Having a risk factor birth control shots, for example; depo
spread to other organs. This disrupts does not mean one will get the disease provera, have also have been found to
normal body functions leading to and similarly, some people may get breast raise breast cancer risk. A few studies have
illness. cancer even without any known risk factors. investigated birth control implants which
in theory could also increase the risk of
There are different types of breast Modifiable risk factors breast cancer.
cancer depending on which part of
the breast the cancer starts from. A Lack of physical exercise- Women who Reproductive history- Having your first
breast is made up of three main parts: are not physically active have a higher risk pregnancy after age 30, not breastfeeding,
lobules, ducts, and connective tissue. of getting breast cancer. Regular physical and never having a full-term pregnancy
Most breast cancers begin in the ducts activity reduces breast cancer risk. This can raise breast cancer risk. Having many
or lobules; can be 150 to 300 minutes of moderate- pregnancies and becoming pregnant at an
intensity exercise per week. early age reduces breast cancer risk.
•The ducts are tubes that carry milk
to the nipple and cancers that start Being overweight or obese after Alcohol intake. Studies show that a
from there are called invasive ductal menopause- Older women who are woman’s risk for breast cancer increases
carcinoma, overweight or obese have a higher risk with the more alcohol she drinks. Women
•The lobules are the glands that of getting breast cancer as compared to who have 1 alcoholic drink a day have a
those with a normal weight. Keeping a small (about 7% to 10%) increase in risk
compared with non-drinkers, while women

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Issue 4 BinduMed

who have 2 to 3 drinks a day have about a
20% higher risk than non-drinkers. Alcohol
is also linked to an increased risk of other
types of cancer.

Non-modifiable risk factors

Being female- The lifetime risk of
developing breast cancer is 13% in females
and 1% in males.
Increase in age.- The risk increases with
age; most breast cancers are diagnosed
after age 50.

Inherited genetic mutations- Inherited
changes (mutations) to certain genes,
such as Breast Cancer Type 1 (BRCA1) and
Breast Cancer Type 2 (BRCA2). Women
who have inherited these genetic changes
are at higher risk of breast and ovarian
cancer.

Reproductive history. Early menstrual •Change in the size, shape or BREAST CANCER
periods before age 12 and menopause appearance of a breast SCREENING
after age 55 exposes women to hormones
longer, raising their risk of getting breast •A newly inverted or retracted (pulled Breast cancer screening means assessing
cancer. in) nipple. breasts for cancer before there are any
signs or symptoms of the disease. This
Dense breasts- Dense breasts have •Unusual or bloody nipple discharge. does not prevent one from developing
more connective tissue than fatty tissue, breast cancer but helps to detect the
which can sometimes make it hard to see cancer early.
tumors on a mammogram. Women with
dense breasts are more likely to get breast For women with average risk of getting
cancer. breast cancer a regular mammogram
(X-ray of the breast) is the best way to
Personal history of breast cancer or •Peeling, scaling, crusting or flaking detect cancer early and this can be done
other breast diseases- Women who have of the pigmented area of skin once every 2 years from the age of 40-50
had breast cancer are more likely to get surrounding the nipple (areola) or years up to 74 years.
breast cancer a second time. Some non- breast skin which can include an
cancerous breast diseases such as atypical eczematous appearance around the Other examinations of the breast include
hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ are nipple-areola region. a clinical breast exam which is a physical
also associated with a higher risk of getting examination done by a doctor or breast
breast cancer. •Redness or pitting of the skin over self-awareness where one familiarises
your breast giving an orange peel with their breasts so they can detect any
Family history of breast or ovarian appearance. changes that may be of concern. However,
cancer- A woman’s risk for breast cancer these other examinations are not a
is higher if she has a mother, sister, or •Lumps in the armpit. substitute to having regular mammograms
daughter (first-degree relative) or multiple as they do not lower the risk of death from
family members on either her mother’s or HOW IS BREAST breast cancer. Regular mammograms have
father’s side of the family who have had CANCER TREATED? been shown to lower the risk of dying from
breast or ovarian cancer. Having a first- breast cancer as they can detect cancers
degree male relative with breast cancer There are various treatment options for even before a lump can be felt. Chances
also raises a woman’s risk. breast cancer available and these depend of cure following treatment are higher
on the stage of the disease i.e how far when the cancer is caught early. Therefore,
Radiation therapy- Women who had the cancer has spread, the type of breast as the saying goes, early detection saves
radiation therapy to the chest or breasts cancer and patient preference. Patients lives!
before age 30 have a higher risk of getting with breast cancer usually get more than
breast cancer later in life. one kind of treatment. Options include: 9

WHAT ARE THE Surgery. An operation where doctors cut
SYMPTOMS OF BREAST out cancer tissue.
CANCER? Chemotherapy. Medicines that shrink or
kill the cancer cells.
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer Radiation therapy. Using high-energy rays
may include: (like X-rays) to kill the cancer cells.
Hormonal therapy. Drugs that block
•A breast lump or thickening that feels cancer cells from getting the hormones
different from the surrounding tissue. that stimulate them to grow.
Sometimes these breast lumps can be Biological therapy. Drugs that work with
deceivingly painless resulting in one your body’s immune system to help it fight
ignoring them and assuming they are cancer cells.
harmless.

Issue 4 BinduMed

WeSakrininDaginsodArdMersask

Dr. Mwatsveruka. N. Munhutu MD, MPH, FAAD
Consultant Dermatologist

The pandemic has brought on a number of challenges and, new skin disorders associated with our latest
habits and efforts to protect ourselves from the dreaded SARS Co-V-2 virus, the causative agent of COVID

19. Maskne is one of the latest skin problems that has come out of the pandemic.

What is maskne? conditions especially in persons with 1.Change or wash your mask daily.
sensitive skin or who have pre-existing If your mask is cloth washing it daily
Maskne (mask+acne) is the novel term skin conditions. Other rashes that is mandatory to keep it clean. If you
that has been coined to describe the could be exacerbated include rosacea, use surgical masks then using a fresh
newfound skin problems many people contact dermatitis (reaction to the one daily is key.
are experiencing on their faces due material of the mask), seborrheic
to daily mask-wearing. It refers to the dermatitis, and perioral dermatitis. 2.Remove all makeup and sweat
pimples, red spots, dark spots and thoroughly by cleansing your face
blemishes that are developing on the How can I prevent or treat when you get home every day and
lower covered half of the face due to my maskne? no longer need to wear your mask.
persistent mask-wearing. When you
breathe or talk, your mask tends to Firstly masks are mandatory and are a 3.Apply a moisturiser to restore the
trap a lot of hot air. This air creates a very important method in preventing balance of your skin.
warm, humid environment — and an coronavirus infection in yourself and
ideal setting for yeast, bacteria and others. Keep wearing your mask! Lastly, if these steps do not improve
other flora. These bacterial imbalances There is good news in that maskne your maskne and it remains
and friction from your mask can is preventable and treatable. These problematic and distressing then the
promote acne resulting in pimples and are simple preventative steps to next step is to see a dermatologist.
pustules appearing around the nose remember. Prescription medications and skin
and mouth. treatments can stop maskne in its
tracks and get you back your healthy
Is maskne for real? glowing skin.

Yes, it’s a real phenomenon and
common complaint now in many
people, however; it is not totally
unexpected. Maskne is medically
classified as “acne mechanica”. This is
a type of acne often seen on the face
at areas of friction and contact with
fabric such as headbands or helmets
in persons who use them frequently,
and now more commonly masks.
Maskne is triggered by friction from
your mask in addition to bacterial and
fungal elements that can proliferate
in the moist and humid environment
created in the mask-covered area.
Unfortunately, mask-wearing can
also flare up other dermatological

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#LoveYourEyes!

By Dr Douglas Zirima
Z and eye specialist

As we welcome a much awaited summer, we wave farewell to those cold winter mornings. It is also time to commemorate
World sight day on 14 October 2021 whose theme this year is #LoveYourEyes. As eye health care professionals, we call

on everyone to focus on their eye health this summer and pledge to Love Your Eyes!

treat. The advice of a healthcare practitioner is always
advised when you are unsure, symptoms are severe, or
persist. Infective causes of pink eye are highly transmissible
through contact, therefore, it is best to maintain strict
hygiene with frequent hand washing, use of sanitizer and
avoiding touching or rubbing the eye.

Choosing an eye healthcare
practitioner

As the seasons’ change, so do the eye symptoms Many have come across a number of different eye care
that one is likely to encounter. “Pink eye” also personnel and often wondered the difference between an
known as conjunctivitis is inflammation of the optician, optometrist and ophthalmologist and when to
thin layer that covers the white part of your see who.
eye. It occurs when the small blood vessels in Determining whether you need to see an ophthalmologist
this layer dilate causing the eye to appear pink or reddish. depends on your needs and your symptoms. An
Causes may be due to an infection or commonly non- optometrist performs eye exams to detect vision problems
infective causes such as allergies. As the Jacaranda trees and prescribes corrective lenses. Some optometrists offer
start to bloom a common symptom is red, itchy and tearing low vision care and provide vision therapy. An optometrist
eyes a typical presentation of allergic conjunctivitis. Often is only appropriate if your eyes are healthy and you
the bane of many children and adults as well! need only a checkup or an update for your eyeglasses
or contact lenses. Ophthalmologists also perform eye
exams and prescribe corrective lenses but they can also
perform eye surgery. They are also highly trained and
skilled at diagnosing, monitoring, and treating various eye
conditions, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, or
cataracts.

Allergic eye conditions can be acute, seasonal, or perennial,
meaning they may occur as a short isolated incident
(acute), seasonal (for example during spring or summer),
or perennial (throughout the year). Treatment initially is
as simple as attempting to avoid a trigger of the allergies
such as pollen, cool compresses to the eye, or topical eye
medications which can alleviate symptoms. Medications
such as antihistamines are available over the counter with
the advice of your healthcare practitioner.

Different infections can also cause “Pink eye”, where often
the eye develops a sticky discharge. Some infections maybe
self-limiting such as viruses or may need an antibiotic to

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Issue 4 BinduMed

advanced care or surgery. Here are some signs you need to
see an ophthalmologist:

1.Loss of vision or decreased vision in one or both eyes;
2.Changes in vision such as sudden spots, flashes of
light, lightning streaks or jagged lines of light, wavy
or watery vision, blurry faces, distortions or wavy lines,
haloes around lights, double vision;
3.Changes in the field of vision such as shadows,
curtain-like loss of vision, black spots or blurriness in
central or peripheral (side) vision;
4.Physical changes to the eye such as crossed eyes,
eyes that turn in, out, up or down, pain, signs of
infection (redness, swelling, discharge, etc.);
Changes in colour vision.

How will seeing an ophthalmologist Make an appointment with an ophthalmologist right away
help you? if you have eye pain, as this might be a symptom of a
serious problem. Go in immediately if you notice signs of
An ophthalmologist evaluates and considers your personal infection in one or both eyes, such as redness, swelling and
risk of disease, which is influenced by race, age and family discharge.
history. They will steer you toward the proper health
screenings at the right times. What else warrants a visit to an
Ophthalmologists can spot eye disease early and take ophthalmologist?
steps to protect your sight. Many eye conditions are silent-
by the time you notice symptoms, your vision may be People with diabetes should get regular eye checks. High
partially impaired. blood sugar can damage blood vessels in the eye and
They can also guide healthy lifestyle choices. You can cause vision loss. Controlling your blood sugar and going
protect your vision by eating eye-healthy foods, exercising, in for regular medical check-ups are two ways you can
and protecting your eyes from UV light. protect your eyes from diabetes.
Vision also changes during pregnancy. An ophthalmologist
Reasons to see an ophthalmologist can help treat common eye conditions of pregnancy,
such as dry eye. Some women develop pregnancy-
You may need an ophthalmologist if you have a pre- related diabetic eye diseases or high blood pressure —
existing eye condition or a new eye problem that requires ophthalmologists are part of the treatment team for these
conditions, too!

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Issue 4IssuBein4duMBiendduMed

Nutritional support for
cancer survivors

Kirsty Baxter one’s diet is a good idea. uses a collaborative approach in
Registered Nutrition A strong link also exists between conjunction with the oncologist or
alcohol consumption and breast health profession team. My nutrition
Breast cancer is a disease cancer hence why moderate practitioner approach is founded on
caused by an overgrowth of consumption of alcohol if at all is the functional medicine approach,
cells within the breast tissue. recommended. Research has found looking at antecedents, mediators,
This is when cells mutate or drinking 1-2 drinks per day throughout and triggers. The role of nutritional
change, disabling specific life as being associated with a 30-50% advice is to provide a personalised,
functions of cell growth and division. increased risk most likely attributed to evidence based nutrition plan that
In many cases, these mutated cells die alcohol’s effect on the way estrogen aims to support behavior change
or are attacked by the immune system is dealt with in the liver. Studies for people living with and beyond
however, some cells escape the have seen a 15% increased risk of breast cancer. Enabling positive
immune system and grow unchecked, breast cancer in women who drink in lifestyle changes can also be beneficial
forming a tumor in the breast. comparison to women who do not to patients by empowering them
drink at all. because the sense of losing control
Diet and lifestyle can influence the is often the biggest hurdle of a
development or recurrence of breast A major risk factor for breast cancer cancer diagnosis. However, this is not
cancer and various lifestyle factors among postmenopausal women is viewed as a replacement for oncology
are considered holistically including; weight gain, with a disproportionate treatment. Many factors are associated
nutrition and supplementation, number of women with breast cancer with breast cancer development, and
exercise and weight management, above their ideal body weight at the while improving diet can improve
estrogen exposure, cutting back on time of diagnosis. This weight gain is your overall health and reduce cancer
smoking or going cold turkey and multifactorial and can be attributed risk in general, it is only one piece of
moderating alcohol consumption. to stress eating, anxiety, depression, the puzzle. Even with a healthy diet,
Whether one is newly diagnosed fatigue and other treatment related there is still need to get regular breast
with breast cancer or facing breast adverse effects i.e. chemotherapy (use cancer screenings like mammograms
cancer that has spread to another of pre and post chemo medications). and manual checks. After all, early
part of the body, the main question is Additionally, most patients with breast detection and diagnosis significantly
often, ‘’What should I eat?’’ Scientific cancer gain weight both during and increases survival rates.
evidence on nutrition and cancer after treatment, much of which is
survivors has demonstrated that often not lost. It is well-known that Contact:
dietary quality and variety make body weight and morbid obesity
a significant difference. Including make a difference in most cancers and Kirsty Baxter
more plant foods in the diet with avoiding being heavily overweight is BANT Registered Nutritionist ®
natural fibre such as cruciferous seen as one of the most important CNHC, UK
vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, survival factors. Weight loss post BA (FA) Hons PG DipMM DipION (UK)
cabbage and kale has been linked to treatment through a healthy diet and MSc (Advanced Nutrition)
extended survival because fruits and exercise is recommended however, +263 772 105 399
vegetables contain antioxidants and weight loss during treatment is not
anti-estrogen properties. Citrus fruits typically encouraged because it is 15
contain folate and vitamin C which often associated with undesired
provides anti-inflammatory effects. muscle loss, leading to fatigue, a
Fatty fish including salmon, sardines suppressed immune system and a
and mackerel are high in omega-3 slower healing process.
fats which studies have shown to offer
cancer protective effects. Herbs and The preferred way to work with a
spices like parsley, rosemary, oregano, client post-diagnosis or treatment
thyme, turmeric, curry and ginger may
help protect against breast cancer
therefore; including a wide variety in

Issue 4 BinduMed

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Information MEDIC ALERT Issue 4 BinduMed
Centre
1 Van Praagh Ave, Milton Park 11. Kambuzuma
AMBULANCES (024) 2 704488, 2916307 Polyclinic
[email protected], 12. Mabelreign
ACE AIR and Ambulance (024) 2 302141, www.medicalert.co.zw Satellite
0782-999901/2/3/4, Emergency (024) 2 302141 13. Malborough
CCeOnVtIrDes-1in9 VHaacrcainreation Satellite
AMBULANCE CARE & EVACUATION (024) 2 332365/6, 14. Avondale
0718 889889 1. Parirenyatwa Satellite
Central Hospital 15. Belvedere
CIMAS Rescue Ambulance Services (024) 2 700 070, 2. Mbare Polyclinic Satellite
(024)2 700 085/26, Toll Free Number 08 080 300 3. Sunningdale 16. Mt. Pleasant
Satellite Satellite
CITY Ambulance (024) 2 783980-7, (024) 2 772375-6 4. Hatfield Satellite 17. Hatcliffe
5. Highfields Polyclinic
EMRAS (024) 2 250011/2, (024) 2 797479, 0772 141610 Polyclinic 18. Borrowdale
6. Southerton Satellite
MARS Ambulance (024) 2 771221, (024) 2 706034, Satellite 19. Highlands FHS
(024) 2 790391, 0712 600002, 08644114578 7. Mufakose 20. Mabvuku
Polyclinic Satellite
NETSTAR Ambulance Service (024) 2 797588-90, 8. Kuwadzana Clinic
(024) 2 2900251, 0774 828888 Satellite 21. Greendale FHS
9. Kuwadzana 22. Eastlea FHS
ST JOHN’S Ambulance (024) 2 764354, (024) 2 253046, Polyclinic 23. Wilkins Hospital
(024) 2 250351, 0774 452233, 0779 587631 10. Warren Park 24. Sally Mugabe
Polyclinic Central Hospital
HOSPITALS
Pink October Activities
Avenues Clinic 66 Baines Ave, (024) 2 251180/1/99,
(024) 2 252480-5, 08677 006175, (Emergency) 0772 135259 The Cancer Association will be hosting the following
activities;
Healthpoint Hospital 15 Lanark Road, Belgravia,
(024) 2 700666/7/8, (024) 2 703355, (024) 2 795483, 1. 1 October- Wear Pink, donate USD$1 (or equivalent) or
(024) 2 705141 more for the cause
Contact +263 24 2707444/ 2705522, or email
Medical Centre, 52 Baines Avenue 24-Hour, [email protected] for more info
(024) 2 705449
2. 1-29 October 2021- Breast Screening Special at 60
Michael Gelfand Clinic 53 Josiah Chinamano Ave, Livingstone Avenue, cnr 6th street, Harare for USD$1
(024) 2 251067, (024) 2 708844/5
3. 28 October 2021 - Breast Cancer Awareness and
Parirenyatwa Hospital Mazowe St, Milton Park, Fundraising Golf Day 15th Anniversary at Chapman Golf
(024) 2 702224, (024) 2 701554-7, (024) 2 705941-3 Club. For more info contact: Cath Riley [email protected]
or Ashley Pringle ashthankfulbrands.co.zw
Milton Park Medical Centre, 2 Harvey Brown Ave, Milton Park +263
775751491, 08677 188 522 4. 31 October 2021- Annual Fun Pink Triathlon 10th Edition.
[email protected] All ages, individuals team events at the Mount Pleasant
Pool, Harare
EMERGENCY AND TRAUMA - OPEN 24 HOURS Visit www.zimtria.org for more info

Arundel Mediclinic ER24, 92 Norfolk Rd, Mt Pleasant, Hre Mummy’s Angels
(024) 2 301495, 08677000269 09 October 2021- Oktoberfest Yoga at River Brewing Co.
Contact Shan 077 9748 848 or Kerri 078 242 7284 to book
Baines Intercare Medical Centre, Accident and Emergency 15 Baines your slot. Limited spaces.
Ave, (024) 2 700950
Free Eye Screening- 14 October 2021
Belvedere Medical Centre Accident/Emergency Centre, 189 S. Machel
Ave, (024) 2 740196/236/185 SeeClear Eye Institute- Book your slot between 9am-
430pm. Contact for more info 0718957510
Emergency Medical Centre Corporate 24 6 Bath Rd, John Mcminn- Book your slot between 9am- 430pm.
Belgravia (024) 2 700410, 2250538, 086-44099814 Contact for more info 077 371 3713

ER 24 53 J. Chinamano Ave, (024) 2 762937/8/9,
0772 905089, Pharmacy (024) 2 762940

FIRE Brigade 994, (024) 2 700950

Kensington Medical Health Clinic 1 Kenny Rd, Kensington, (024) 2
700218, 0782 005903

Trauma Centre Borrowdale 1 Borrowdale Lane,
(024) 2 886921/4, 0773 333691

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