Key facts
- 1 in 7 women in NSW will develop breast cancer in their lifetime
- 9 out of 10 women with breast cancer have no family history of the disease
- The best way to find breast cancer early in women aged 50 to 74 is to have a breast screen
- 89 out of every 100 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer now survive five or more years beyond diagnosis
Find more information about BreastScreenNSW’s mobile screening van
Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October focuses on breast cancer and its impact on those affected by the disease in our community.
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Australian women (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer). Key risk factors for developing breast cancer are being female and getting older – 75 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 50.
Early detection remains the best chance of survival.
It is important women of all ages self-check their breasts and women aged 50 to 74 years take up the invitation of a free screening.
Self-check
Changes to look for include:
- a new lump or lumpiness, especially if it’s only in one breast
- a change in the size or shape of your breast
- a change to the nipple, such as crusting, ulcer, redness or inversion
- a nipple discharge that occurs without squeezing
- a change in the skin of your breast such as redness or dimpling
- an unusual pain that doesn’t go away.
Most changes aren’t due to breast cancer but it’s important to see your doctor without delay if you notice any of these changes.
Free screening
BreastScreen NSW provides free screening to women 50 to 74 at fixed locations at Bankstown, Liverpool, Campbelltown and Bowral and through its mobile screening van which will be at Fairfield Forum from 7 September to 20 November, Monday to Friday and selected Saturdays.
Make an appointment by calling 13 20 50, book online or drop in to the van for assistance. COVID-19 safety measures are in place.
Remember, if found early, breast cancer is easier to treat and there is an increased chance of survival.
Find more information:
BreastScreen NSW Service Schedule 2020 – brochure
Breast screening and you – brochure
BreastScreen NSW COVID-19 safety measures – brochure
Breast screening at Fairfield Forum – poster
Breast screening at Fairfield Forum (information for Aboriginal women) – poster