Breast Cancer Awareness – What We Need to Know
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women
Why is breast cancer awareness important?
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women (apart from non-melanoma skin cancer). Approximately one in eight Australian women will be diagnosed during their lifetime. This translates to an enormous impact on Australian women those who know and love them.
Survival rates for women with breast cancer continue to improve. This is due to several important factors:
Research: a large amount of research is being conducted to further our understanding of the biology of breast cancer and trialling novel therapeutic agents and treatments.
Early detection: population screening programs such as BreastScreen Victoria help detect cancers at an early stage when they can be more easily treated
What should I do?
There are a few important things you can do to take care of your own breast health and support those in our community with breast cancer.
Understand how to minimise your risk of developing breast cancer
There are several risk factors for breast cancer which can be modified to reduce a person’s chances of developing breast cancer. These include maintaining a healthy weight, minimising alcohol and not smoking. iPrevent is a risk assessment and risk management support tool which can help you understand your own personal risk and help you discuss this with your doctor. Visit https://www.petermac.org/iprevent
Breast self-examinations
No-one knows your body better than you do! You are in the best position to notice any changes in your body. Make examining your breasts every month a priority. You can do it in the shower. It’s easy.
Know the symptoms and signs of breast cancer
These include breast skin changes, lumps in the breast or armpit, breast pain, nipple inversion or discharge, a change in size or shape of your breast. See your doctor immediately if you are concerned about any of these.
Book a BreastScreen appointment
Women and gender diverse people with breasts aged 50 to 74 are eligible for free mammograms through BreastScreen Victoria. Those aged in their 40s or over 75 should speak to their doctor about whether screening is appropriate for them
Donate to breast cancer research
There are many research organisations which rely on generous donations to continue their important work in saving lives and supporting women with breast cancer
Lironne has a special interest in managing menopausal symptoms associated with cancer treatment. She believes in optimising the wellbeing and quality of life of her patients, and has a holistic and evidence-based approach.
Lironne also heads our WHM Familial Cancer Risk Clinic. Make an appoitnment to see Lironne to assess your risk of developing a cancer and to support your long term surveillance if you have a family history of cancer in a close relative.
To make an appointment with Lironne please call (03) 9041 9082 or email Women’s Health Melbourne info@womenshealthmelbourne.com.au
Written by Dr Lironne Wein
Consultant Physician and Medical Oncologist
Dr Lironne Wein is Women’s Health Melbourne’s Consultant Physician and Medical Oncologist. She believes in optimising the wellbeing and quality of life of all her patients, delivering holistic and evidence-based care with an individualised approach.