Are you breast aware?
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and BreastScreen Queensland Sunshine Coast is encouraging women to remember to look after their own breast health.
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting women in Queensland with one in seven women diagnosed by the age of 85. It is important for women of all ages to be breast aware.
BreastScreen Queensland health promotion officer Kelly Hart said it was great that many people held events during October to raise awareness and much needed funds for breast cancer research.
“These valued funds will go towards cancer research and to support women as they progress through their treatment for breast cancer,” Ms Hart said.
“However, many women forget to look after their own breast health.
“Women should be familiar with the look and feel of their breasts. If they find a breast lump, a watery or bloodstained nipple discharge, or any breast changes that concern them, they should talk to their doctor as soon as possible.”
The other important step that all women aged over 40 can take to keep on top of their breast health is to have a regular breast screen every two years.
Ms Hart said breast cancer screening remained the most effective way to detect breast cancer early.
“Although screening doesn’t stop breast cancer developing, finding it early does give women the best possible chance of successful treatment and wellbeing,” she said.
The BreastScreen Queensland program is a free service for women aged over 40, with women aged 50 to 74 strongly encouraged to attend. No doctor’s referral is required.
BreastScreen Queensland Noosaville is located at The Professional Centre, Goodchap Street. The free BreastScreen mobile service is also visiting Opal Street Cooroy from 18 October to 10 November 2022.
To make an appointment at any BreastScreen Queensland Service call 13 20 50 or visit breastscreen.qld.gov.au
THE FACTS:
• 75 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 50. Younger women do get breast cancer, but the risk of breast cancer increases dramatically after the age of 50.
• Nine out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease. While women with a family history of breast cancer are more at risk, most women diagnosed have no family history of the disease at all.
• A breast screen every two years is the best way to detect breast cancer early, well before you or your doctor can feel anything.
