Project Early Detection (PED) is Be Part Yoluntu NPC’s first, donor-funded, in-house original research initiative, which was launched in response to a pressing need for breast cancer screening within the Mbekweni community.. 

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From November 2023 to March 2024, PED offered clinical breast examinations and timely investigations, successfully screening 381 female participants. Of these, 55 participants were referred for imaging studies at Schnetler, Corbett & Partners Radiology (SCP) at Mediclinic Paarl, and 4 participants were referred to Paarl Hospital Surgical Department for further investigations. SCP joined our cause and provided invaluable assistance in conducting imaging studies for all Project Early Detection participants. This collaboration strengthened our commitment to giving back to the community and enhanced the project's overall impact.

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The project was created to address a critical gap in breast cancer screening within the community, aiming to determine the incidence of breast cancer and understand the lived experiences of affected women. It was sparked by a patient in another trial who, after reporting a breast mass, was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. This case highlighted the community's lack of awareness about breast cancer and its management, suggesting many are unfamiliar with the disease and how to seek medical help.

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Considerable time was devoted to refining the research protocol, which was reviewed and confirmed to meet both international and local standards for research involving human participants. At present a report is being formulated with the aim to publish the findings in a scientific journal.