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ToggleCancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or lifestyle. By understanding the most common types of cancer, you can become more aware of potential risks and early warning signs. Let’s have a look at 5 common types of cancer.
1. Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is a significant concern for women worldwide. It’s crucial to be well-informed about this condition and understand the measures you can take for early detection and prevention. Dr. Jolandi Meyer advises women to stay proactive with their breast health.
Breast Self-Exams: Regular breast self-exams are an excellent way to familiarize yourself with your breast tissue. You should perform these exams monthly, ideally a few days after your menstrual period. Look for any unusual changes, such as lumps, skin dimpling, or nipple changes. If you notice any of these, consult with a healthcare professional promptly.
Mammograms: Mammograms are specialized X-ray screenings that can detect breast cancer in its early stages, often before symptoms manifest. Dr. Meyer recommends routine mammograms for women, typically starting at age 40 or earlier for those with a family history of breast cancer. These screenings can detect abnormalities even before they are palpable.
2. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer affects men and typically occurs in older age. Early detection plays a vital role in effectively managing this condition. Here’s what you should know about prostate cancer:
Regular Check-Ups: As men age, especially after the age of 50, it’s essential to schedule regular check-ups with healthcare professionals like Dr. Meyer. During these visits, your doctor can discuss your risk factors, perform a physical examination, and assess the need for prostate-specific screenings.
Screenings: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood tests and digital rectal exams (DRE) are common screening methods for prostate cancer. These tests can detect changes in the prostate that may indicate cancer. Discuss with your doctor when you should start these screenings based on your personal and family medical history.
Symptoms to Watch For: While prostate cancer may not initially display symptoms, it’s crucial to be vigilant. Signs that could indicate prostate cancer include urinary changes, such as frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urine flow, blood in the urine, and discomfort in the pelvic area.
3. Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is notorious for its silent development, often causing a delay in diagnosis. While it predominantly affects smokers, non-smokers can also develop this cancer. Recognizing early signs is key to improving survival rates:
Persistent Cough: A cough that doesn’t go away or worsens over time could be a sign of lung cancer. It’s essential to distinguish between a chronic cough due to smoking or other factors and one that’s potentially cancer-related.
Chest Pain: Lung cancer may cause chest discomfort or pain, especially during deep breathing or coughing. This pain may result from the tumour pressing on the chest wall or affecting nerves.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss, particularly if it’s significant, can be a red flag. This symptom is often associated with advanced stages of cancer, making early detection even more crucial.
Shortness of Breath: If you find yourself becoming breathless during routine activities or notice a persistent feeling of breathlessness, it’s vital to consult a healthcare professional.
4. Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer affects the colon and rectum and is among the most common cancers. Being aware of the symptoms and undergoing appropriate screenings is essential:
Changes in Bowel Habits: Any persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency, should be investigated. These may be early signs of colorectal cancer.
Blood in the Stool: The presence of blood in the stool, whether visible or not, can be a sign of colorectal cancer. It’s important not to dismiss this symptom.
Abdominal Discomfort: Chronic abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort, particularly if it’s associated with other symptoms like changes in bowel habits, should be addressed promptly.
Screening: Screening for colorectal cancer is highly effective at detecting and preventing this cancer. Common screening methods include colonoscopies and stool tests. Dr. Jolandi Meyer can guide you on the appropriate screening regimen based on your risk factors and age.
5. Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is unique among cancers because it is often visible on the skin’s surface. Regular self-examination and sun protection are essential in preventing and detecting this cancer:
Self-Examinations: Examine your skin regularly, looking for changes in moles or the appearance of new, abnormal growths. Pay attention to any asymmetry, irregular borders, colour variations, or changes in size and texture.
Protection from Sun Exposure: One of the most effective ways to prevent skin cancer is to protect your skin from the sun. This includes using broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure, especially during peak hours.
Dr. Jolandi Meyer emphasizes that understanding the nuances of each cancer type and being proactive in monitoring your health are pivotal in the early detection and management of cancer. Regular consultations with your healthcare provider, especially when you notice potential warning signs or have risk factors, can make a substantial difference in your overall well-being.

Early Signs to Look Out For
Early detection is the key to successful cancer treatment. Understanding the signs and symptoms of cancer can make all the difference. Here are some general warning signs to watch for:
Breast Cancer:
Breast Lumps: One of the most common early signs of breast cancer is the presence of a breast lump or a thickening in the breast tissue. These lumps are often painless, but not always. Any new lump or mass that feels different from the surrounding tissue should be evaluated.
Changes in Breast Size or Shape: Breast cancer can cause changes in the size or shape of one or both breasts. This may include asymmetry or distortion that was not previously present.
Nipple Changes: Keep an eye out for changes in the nipples, such as nipple inversion (nipple turning inward), nipple discharge (other than breast milk), or redness and scaling of the nipple or breast skin.
Skin Changes: Changes in the skin of the breast, such as dimpling or puckering, can be an early sign of breast cancer. These changes may make the breast appear reddened or resemble the skin of an orange (referred to as “orange-peel” skin).
Prostate Cancer:
Urinary Changes: Changes in urinary habits may be an early sign of prostate cancer. This can include increased frequency of urination, especially at night, difficulty starting or stopping urine flow, and a weak or interrupted urine stream.
Blood in the Urine: Hematuria, or blood in the urine, can be indicative of prostate cancer. It’s important to note that blood in the urine can be due to various factors, and not all cases are linked to cancer.
Pelvic Discomfort: Some men with prostate cancer may experience discomfort or pain in the pelvic area. This discomfort can range from mild to severe.
Lung Cancer:
Persistent Cough: A persistent cough that lingers for weeks or months, or a cough that changes over time, can be an early sign of lung cancer. This is particularly relevant if you are a smoker or have a history of smoking.
Chest Pain: Lung cancer can cause chest pain that may be sharp or dull and may worsen during deep breathing, coughing, or laughing. It’s essential to differentiate between cancer-related pain and other causes.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden, unexplained weight loss, especially if it is significant, can be an early sign of various cancers, including lung cancer.
Shortness of Breath: If you find yourself becoming breathless during everyday activities or notice a persistent feeling of breathlessness, it should be a cause for concern and should prompt medical evaluation.
Colorectal Cancer:
Changes in Bowel Habits: Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency, can be an early sign of colorectal cancer. These changes may occur without any other obvious explanation.
Blood in the Stool: The presence of blood in the stool, whether visible or not (occult blood), can be a warning sign. It’s crucial not to disregard this symptom.
Abdominal Discomfort: Chronic abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort, particularly if it is associated with other symptoms like changes in bowel habits, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Skin Cancer:
Changes in Moles: One of the most common early signs of skin cancer is changes in moles. Pay attention to any moles that exhibit asymmetry, irregular borders, variations in color, or changes in size and texture.
New or Abnormal Growths: Be vigilant about the appearance of new, abnormal growths on your skin. These may include sores that don’t heal, nodules, or red patches.
Itching or Pain: Unexplained itching, pain, or tenderness in or around a mole or skin lesion should raise concern.
Ulceration or Bleeding: Any mole or skin growth that starts to ulcerate (develop an open sore) or bleed without an obvious cause should be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Preventative Measures Against Cancer
Prevention is always better than cure. Dr. Jolandi Meyer encourages her patients to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of cancer. Here are some essential strategies:
1. Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of cancer. This includes:
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables provides essential nutrients and antioxidants that can help prevent cancer.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise is linked to a lower risk of several types of cancer.
- Tobacco and Alcohol: Avoid or limit the use of tobacco and alcohol, both of which are associated with an increased risk of various cancers.
2. Screenings and Vaccinations
Regular screenings and vaccinations are essential for early cancer detection and prevention. For example:
- Mammograms and Pap Smears: These screenings are crucial for the early detection of breast and cervical cancer in women.
- Colonoscopies: Regular colon cancer screenings are recommended, especially for individuals with a family history of the disease.
- Vaccinations: Vaccines like the HPV vaccine can protect against certain types of cancer, including cervical cancer.
3. Sun Protection
Skin cancer is preventable by protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure. This includes using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds.
4. Healthy Weight Maintenance
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of several types of cancer. Dr. Meyer can provide guidance on weight management and nutrition to help you stay on the right track.

When to Consult Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Regular check-ups with your GP, like Dr. Meyer, are essential for maintaining good health and early cancer detection. If you experience any symptoms that concern you, or if you have risk factors for cancer, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Dr. Meyer is here to assist you with the following:
- Screenings: Dr. Jolandi Meyer can advise you on the appropriate cancer screenings based on your age, gender, and family history.
- Risk Assessment: If you have a family history of cancer, Dr. Meyer can assess your risk and develop a personalized prevention plan.
- Symptom Evaluation: If you experience any worrisome symptoms, Dr. Meyer can conduct a thorough evaluation, order tests, and provide a timely diagnosis.
- Support and Guidance: Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. Dr. Meyer offers compassionate support and guidance to help you navigate your treatment options and decisions.
Remember, early detection can save lives. Dr. Meyer’s commitment to your well-being includes promoting cancer awareness and ensuring you receive the best care when needed.

Dr. Jolandi Meyer is here to support you on your journey to good health. Regular check-ups, screenings, and open communication with her can make a world of difference in the fight against cancer. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Consult with Dr. Meyer, and together, we can work towards a healthier and cancer-free future.
Additional Resource:
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), a non-profit leader in the fight against cancer since 1931, enables research, educates the public and advocates for and supports all people affected by cancer, while leading SA towards a cancer-free society. Read more…
0800 22 6622

Common Ailments Treated by Dr. Jolandi Meyer
Dr. Jolandi Meyer’s expertise and comprehensive treatment options make her an exceptional General Practitioner for addressing all ailments. She provides personalised care, empowering patients to achieve optimal health. Her compassionate approach ensures patients receive the highest quality treatment.
With her support and guidance, patients can embark on a journey towards improved well-being and a healthier, happier life.
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