This year more than 245 women in the Western and Far Western Local Health Districts will be diagnosed with breast cancer,
while about 42 women will die from breast cancer.
WNSWLHD Breastscreen Manager, Meg O’Brien, said far too many women might be unaware of their risk of breast cancer, despite the fact that 9 in 10 women diagnosed don’t have a family history.
“The risk is real for every woman aged 50 to 74. One in eight women in NSW will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and less than 10 per cent of them will have a family history,” Meg said.
“That’s why all women in this age group should screen for breast cancer, regardless of whether they have a family history.”
“By detecting breast cancer early, breast screening not only saves lives but also reduces the likelihood of a woman needing invasive treatment, such as a mastectomy or chemotherapy.”
According to Meg more than 16,000 women in the Western and Far Western Local Health Districts get a free, state-of-the-art mammogram through BreastScreen NSW each year.
“The more having a mammogram with BreastScreen NSW becomes part of your normal two-yearly health routine, the easier it is to keep going. The key is to get the momentum started,” Meg said.
“When it comes to reducing breast cancer risk, it is also vital to focus on lifestyle factors within a woman’s control.”
“While a family history can’t be changed, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, reducing alcohol intake and quitting smoking are all things that can significantly reduce a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer,” she said.
In addition to 46 BreastScreen sites, BreastScreen NSW has 16 mobile vans that provide services to about 180 locations across NSW, including in rural and remote areas.
The mobile BreastScreen van is currently in Forbes until 21st August. Make use of this free services and make an appointment today.
To book a mammogram with BreastScreen NSW, phone 13 20 50, or book online by visiting breastscreen.nsw.gov.au.