BreastScreen NSW are encouraging eligible women in the Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) to book their free breast screen during October, which is breast screen awareness month.  

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in NSW, with one in seven being diagnosed during their lifetime.

Across the NNSWLHD, close to 300 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year.  Chief Cancer Officer for NSW and CEO of the Cancer Institute of NSW, Professor Tracey O’Brien, said age and being female are the two biggest risk factors to developing breast cancer.  “More than 75 percent of breast cancers occur in women aged over 50, and we know that screening saves lives by finding breast cancer early,” Professor O’Brien said.  “There are many reasons why women may put off their breast screen.

“Some feel that without a family history they are not at risk, while some say they are too busy, and others fear embarrassment about the procedure.

“We need women to know that breast cancer can happen to anyone.”

Professor O’Brien revealed nine out of every 10 women who develop breast cancer have no family history.

She said BreastScreen NSW staff are highly trained and support women through the process, and screening provides “a great peace of mind.”  Jane Walsh, Director of BreastScreen NSW North Coast, said it’s important for all women to regularly check their breasts and familiarise themselves with the normal look and feel of their breasts so that they can identify any unusual changes.

“BreastScreen NSW recommends all women aged 50-74 years have a breast screen every two years,” she said.

To book an appointment, please call 13 20 50 or visit www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au