Practice in Sandton offers latest cancer detection technology and mammographies
PARKMORE — Doctor Mbengo and the Pink Ribbon Breast Screening Centre.
Athol resident, Doctor Jowie Mbengo is fighting the good fight against breast cancer and its early detection.
Daughter of a UN ambassador, Mbengo has lived and studied in Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Penzance in Cornwall, and is finally back home in South Africa. She worked as a senior specialist in radiology at the Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital before deciding to branch out into the private sector in 2012.
Mbengo established the Pink Ribbon Breast Screening Centre in Parkmore, Sandton in July last year, which focuses on early detection of breast cancer. The centre provides mammographies with 3D tomosynthesis, which is a highly advanced procedure and the latest type of mammogram for detection of cancer.
The accredited practice also offers biopsies, ultrasounds and bone density examinations. Mbengo said, “We do have initiatives involved for people who are struggling to afford the various procedures. We understand how expensive it can be and, therefore, offer specials to help these individuals. We do need more funding, though, as we would love to be able to offer this service free of charge.”
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Mbengo attends many local schools, speaking about the importance of early awareness of breast cancer and said, “I’m passionate about going out to communities and bringing light and understanding to this disease. It is so important for women to be aware of early detection and self-examinations, even at a young age.”
Women over 40 should have a mammogram once a year, as it’s the gold standard of procedures and can detect cancer two years before it is present. Young girls should go for breast ultrasound and those with a family history of breast cancer should come in even earlier.
Mbengo said, “Self-assessments should be done regularly and for women who are not sure how to do a self-assessment, they can come to the clinic and we’ll show them the proper way, free of charge.”
Details: For more information or anyone who would like to donate, please email admin@pinkribboncentre.co.za
How often do you perform self-examinations? Tell us on WhatsApp 079 439 5345.
