Be abreast of changes this October

​Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder of the TWO ways to detect breast cancer early – being breast aware and participating in screening with BreastScreen WA.
 
Being breast aware and knowing what to look for could help find breast cancer early and increase the chance of successful treatment. Everyone’s breasts are different. It is important that you get to know what your breasts look and feel like, so you know what is normal for you. There is no right or wrong way to check your breasts. If you notice any of these changes for more than four weeks see your doctor:

• A lump, lumpiness or thickening in the breast or armpit, especially if it is only on one side
• A change in the size, shape or feel of the breast
• Change in the appearance of the breast eg: dimpling (skin looks like the skin of an orange), puckering or redness on or around the breast
• Changes to the nipple e.g. inversion (nipple pulled inwards), new discharge or itchy, ulcerated skin
• New or persistent discomfort or pain, especially if it is only on one side
• An area of the breast that feels different to the rest.

If you’re unsure about a possible symptom you should make an appointment to discuss the change with your doctor, clinic nurse or Aboriginal health worker as soon as possible, particularly if it’s been four weeks since you first noticed the change.  Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among WA women – and the second highest cause of cancer death. WA women have a 1 in 10 chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 75 and in 2017, 268 Western Australian women died from breast cancer. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare predicts over 19,000 people in Australia will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Of this, 99.2% will be women and 0.8% will be men.
The second way to detect breast cancer early is by participating in breast screening with BreastScreen WA. Eligible women aged over 40 years who DO NOT have breast cancer symptoms are encouraged to participate in free breast screening provided by the mobile Breastscreen WA van by calling 13 20 50 or booking online. Women aged 50-74 will be sent an invitation letter in the mail when the van is coming to their area.
For more information about breast cancer and how to identify the symptoms, visit www.findcancerearly.com.au or call Cancer Council’s information and support line on 13 11 20.
Melissa Pickering
CCWA Regional Education Officer - Wheatbelt
T: 9574 5392  M: 0427 876 946
75 York Rd Northam  WA  6401

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