International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Men should encourage their female partners to go for regular medical check-ups, it has been claimed.

Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, a member of the executive council for health in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa, said this should particularly be the case where breast cancer examinations are concerned, reports BuaNews.

He stated: "It is honourable for a man to care about the reproductive health of his partner, so, we need men of honour."

According to Dr Dhlomo, mammography is currently the most effective way of finding breast cancer in its earliest and most treatable stages, with self-exams not always suitable.

The treatment represents "the best available method" to control both the causes and the consequences of cancer, he stated.

"This approach addresses all aspects of cancer control including prevention, treatment and management, it stresses the need for evidence based policies and programmes, and promotes a systematic, balanced and coordinated approach to their development and implementation," Dr Dhlomo added.

The Cancer Association of South Africa reports that one in 29 women in the nation will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lives.