CANSA Care Week highlights the care offered by the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) to cancer patients. CANSA offers a unique, integrated service to the public which involves holistic cancer care and support to all people affected by cancer.
An important aspect of the work done by CANSA is the undertaking of research and supply of knowledge that could facilitate lowering cancer risk, educating the public regarding symptoms, screening and risk reduction as well as providing care and support to people whose lives have been impacted by cancer.
Receiving a cancer diagnosis for yourself or a family member should not leave you paralysed with fear. Making sure you and your loved ones will have access to the best treatment and resources to fight the diagnosis is paramount. Early treatment intervention and emotional support from medical professionals can influence the recovery journey.
According to the World Health Organisation, cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Statistics show that cancer affects 1 in 4 South Africans, revealing that the lives of 25% of South Africans will be directly or indirectly altered through a cancer diagnosis.
Cancer arises from the transformation of normal cells into tumour cells in a multistage process that generally progresses from a pre-cancerous lesion to a malignant tumour. The most common cancers are lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, skin and stomach cancer.
Not all cancer results in death because all treatments and recovery journeys differ. There is a recovery rate of 6 out of 10 in South Africa, and therefore having regular preventative screening as well as access to dedicated professionals should be a priority when choosing a medical aid plan.
Cancer treatment can come at extremely high costs that inevitably place a financial and emotional burden on top of existing health concerns. Glopin Healthcare Consultants want to give you peace of mind for your future by ensuring you have adequate cover should you receive a cancer diagnosis.
Navigating the medical scheme world is daunting and members need independent and knowledgeable advice that can be provided by our highly skilled team. There are many medical aid companies who all have different oncology benefits and options to choose from. Many of the South African medical schemes have Oncology Management programmes that you will need to register with once you have received a positive diagnosis.
To ensure you have comprehensive oncology cover and access to a palliative care programme speak to a Glopin Healthcare Consultant.
