Breast Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian females with a staggering 57 women a day, or more than 20,000 a year, diagnosed with this potentially fatal disease, so news that the BreastScreen NSW Van is coming to the Lower Clarence provides local ladies with the perfect opportunity to ensure they are cancer free.

Since May 31, the van has been located outside Yamba Golf and Country Club on River Street, providing free breast screening for women to support the early detection of breast cancer.

After Yamba, the van will move to outside the Iluka Bowling Club, on Denne Street, from June 29 until July 6, when it will move to Maclean where it will be located in the Cameron Park car park near Ritchies IGA supermarket.

BreastScreen North Coast Director Jane Walsh said a regular breast screen is one of the most important things women can do for their health.

“Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy,” she said.

“Around 90 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history.

“This is why breast cancer screening is so important for all eligible women.”

No doctor’s referral is needed to attend a free, 20-minute appointment with BreastScreen NSW.

Ms Walsh said having the BreastScreen NSW van visit Yamba, Iluka and Maclean makes it easier for women to attend their recommended two-yearly screening.

“Bringing these vital services to Yamba, Iluka and Maclean means more local women can be screened,” she said.

“Life gets busy, and we want women to make their health a priority.”

All women aged 50 and over are recommended by BreastScreen NSW to have a mammogram every two years.

Any woman that has a family history of breast cancer is advised to discuss their specific needs with their GP, while any person with breast symptoms should contact their doctor or health care worker without delay.

The state-of-the-art BreastScreen NSW van is equipped with a lift system to support women with health conditions or disability to have their mammogram.

Any women with additional needs are encouraged to let BreastScreen NSW know when making their appointment.

To book a free mammogram with BreastScreen NSW, visit book.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au or call 13 20 50.