The new mobile breast screening unit is continuing its tour of Forbes until Monday 28 September following 5 weeks in Parkes. The bus is part of BreastScreen NSW Greater Western’s initiative aiming to increase awareness and promote early detection of breast cancer.
“It is vital for all women aged between 50 and 74 to have a mammogram every two years at a BreastScreen NSW clinic,” said Lachlan Health Service Manager Liz Mitchell. “It is a free service that only takes 20 minutes and it could save your life.” Liz said it is wonderful that women from Forbes can get a free mammogram locally without having to travel during this time, encouraging local women to make the most of the opportunity while the van is in Forbes.
The BreastScreen van is one of 11 upgraded units in the state with the purpose of helping to support early detection for the one in eight women in NSW affected by breast cancer in their lifetime. “Early detection is the key to improving the survival rate of breast cancer, and mammograms can detect cancers before they can be seen or felt,” Liz said.
Enhancements in the new vehicles include things like upgraded digital mammography equipment, a secure wireless communication system, improved air-conditioning and wheelchair access. Lorraine Parker, a Councillor for Lachlan
Health said the upgraded van is a great improvement because it uses the same technology and provides the same service as the BreastScreen service in Orange without the need to travel.
“It is really important that women visit the van while it is in Forbes,” Lorraine said. The BreastScreen Mobile Unit will be stationed in Victoria Park behind the Cenotaph on Harold Street until Friday 28 September, when it will then travel to Tottenham, Tullamore, Trundle, Peak Hill, Narromine and Molong. Bookings can be made by phoning 13 20 50 or just stop by the van.