South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde
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Breast cancer is recognised as a heterogeneous disorder, comprising a number of subcategories of several cellular compositions, molecular alterations as well as clinical behaviour. Across the world, research has been able to show that the most common molecular subtype is luminal A, followed by triple negative and human epidermal receptor 2 (HER2)-positive (non-luminal) subtype. However, another study found that the most common molecular subtype was HER2/neu amplification, suggesting that subtypes case frequencies differ in different people. ⋯ The majority of our patients had luminal subtypes and hormonal receptor-positive breast cancers, which should be associated with very good clinical outcomes. However, the majority of patients presented late with advanced-stage disease and high Ki-67 expression. Therefore, research is required to help us understand why in our context patients present late with advanced-stage disease.
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While the absolute number of hospital beds is usually discussed, adequate utilisation of beds is a far better instrument to measure departmental efficiency. ⋯ There is a need to address the functioning of the surgical specialties with regards to the number of beds allocated as well as the ideal average length of stay.
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There is a paucity of data on the functioning and surgical procedures performed in rural hospitals in South Africa. ⋯ There is a great necessity to alleviate the central hospitals from the bulk of surgical procedures.
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Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among women worldwide. It is the most prevalent cancer and leading cause of death among South African (SA) women. The increasing incidence of breast cancer is a major health concern. Until now, the distribution of breast cancer demography, stage at first presentation, and histological characterisation have not been studied in Limpopo Province, SA. ⋯ More than one-third of patients were younger than 50 years. The majority (69%) had an advanced breast cancer (stage III or IV). We recommend provision of mammography services in regional hospitals.