October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness of this prevalent disease.
Northern Health has taken it upon themselves to educate the public about its symptoms and prevention, and raising funds for research into its causes, treatments, and potential cures.
Cheryl Murray, Breast Care Nurse Consultant at Northern Health, stressed the critical importance of early detection.
“Early detection is crucial. The sooner we identify the cancer, the sooner we can explore treatment options,” she said.
Advancements in both imaging and treatment methods have led to more personalized care plans for patients, ultimately extending their lifespans.
Currently, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer stands at an impressive 92 percent.
In 2022, the risk of a breast cancer diagnosis was one in seven for women and one in 555 for men, with approximately 75 percent of new cases occurring in women aged 50 and above.
Data from BreastScreen Australia revealed that 60 percent of cancers detected were smaller than 15 mm when identified through regular screening, while only 28 percent of cancers of the same size were found using non-screen detection methods.
Ms Murray also stressed the importance of understanding your own body.
“Breasts come in all different shapes and sizes, so being breast-aware is essential.”
She encouraged individuals to follow a simple routine to monitor their breast health.
The routine of regularly looking and feeling for any differences is crucial in being able to identify any problems.
BreastScreen Victoria offers free mammograms to women and trans and gender-diverse individuals between the ages of 50 and 74 who exhibit no signs or symptoms of breast cancer.
For those in the 40–49 age bracket, BreastScreen Australia provides a free screening program, underscoring the importance of early detection and prevention in the fight against breast cancer.
