Breast Cancer Awareness Month: A reminder to know your normal

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about breast cancer and the importance of early detection. 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Australia, and finding breast cancer early provides the best chance of successful treatment.  

One of the simplest things people can do is get to know what is normal for their breasts. 

There is no special technique needed. Becoming familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel can make it easier to notice a change. 

Changes to look out for can include: 

• a new lump or lumpiness, particularly in one breast  
• a change in the size or shape of a breast  
• changes to the nipple, including crusting, redness or inversion  
• nipple discharge which occurs without squeezing  
• redness or dimpling of the skin  
• unusual pain which does not go away 

Most breast changes are not caused by cancer, but it is important to see your GP if you notice something unusual.  

Keep up with breast screening 

Regular breast screening can detect breast cancer before you notice a change or feel a lump. 

BreastScreen NSW recommends women aged 50 to 74 have a breast screen every two years. Women aged 40 to 49 and over 74 are also eligible for free screening and can talk to their GP about whether screening is right for them. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are recommended to screen from age 40.  

A BreastScreen NSW appointment is free, takes around 20 minutes and does not require a GP referral.  

Importantly, breast screening is for people without symptoms. If you notice a change in your breast, don’t wait for your next breast screen – make an appointment with your GP. 

This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take a moment to know your normal, check when your next breast screen is due and encourage the people in your life to do the same.