Lung cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, lifestyle, or background. Yet many South Africans remain unaware that early detection through modern screening tests can save lives—and that effective treatment options are now widely available.
Once considered a grim diagnosis, lung cancer is now becoming increasingly treatable thanks to personalised care. Patients today have more options and a better chance of recovery than ever before.
“While our patients face a wide range of cancers, lung cancer remains the most common, mirroring global trends,” says Amanda Busch, oncology manager at Medipost Pharmacy. “It’s often difficult to detect early, and symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions. Anyone with concerns should consult a healthcare professional promptly. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment.”
Types of Lung Cancer and Modern Treatments
There are two main types of lung cancer: small-cell lung cancer and non-small-cell lung cancer, the latter accounting for roughly 90% of cases. Treatments have evolved significantly over the past decade. Depending on individual needs, options now include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, or targeted therapy.
Medipost Pharmacy supports patients and oncology practices by dispensing and delivering chemotherapy medicines, consumables, and related items under strict Good Pharmacy Practice standards.
Personalised Treatment Plans
Each patient receives a customised treatment plan, with detailed information before therapy begins. “To complement hospital treatment, patients are provided with a treatment basket containing pre-chemotherapy medications, medicines to boost white blood cell count, and items to manage side effects like nausea,” explains Busch.
Blood tests are conducted before each treatment cycle to adjust medications and dosages as needed. Medipost ensures all oncology medicines are safely transported to practices or directly to patients’ homes. Special care is taken with cytotoxic medicines and items that require cold-chain handling to maintain safety and effectiveness.
Managing Side Effects and Patient Support
Cancer treatments can bring side effects, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, skin reactions, and digestive issues. Supporting medications are prescribed to manage these effects, and patients are encouraged to report all symptoms to their care team.
“Proper counselling and preparation are essential,” Busch says. “Anti-nausea medication is usually taken before treatment, which is more effective than trying to stop nausea once it starts. Breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and simple remedies like peppermint or ginger tea can also help, alongside good nutrition and rest.”
Medipost Pharmacy assists patients with personalised medication guidance, medical aid claims, and authorisations to ensure treatment is funded correctly and without delays.
Early Detection Saves Lives
“Lung cancer is treatable, but early diagnosis is crucial,” Busch concludes. “Genetics, age, environmental factors, and smoking play a role, but anyone can be affected. Awareness and screening save lives and can help improve outcomes for lung cancer in South Africa.”
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