It is estimated that almost 20,000 women and 164 men in Australia will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Australian women apart from skin cancer.
There are many reasons why a person may be at increased risk of developing breast cancer which can include both inherited and lifestyle factors.
Things like older age, taking hormone replacement therapy, being overweight, not getting enough exercise, drinking alcohol and a family history of breast cancer can all increase your risk.
Something simple and free that you can do right now is to access iPrevent via the Peter Mac website. It’s an online tool to help Australian women understand their personal breast cancer risk and what they can do about it. You might like to print out your personalised report and discuss it with your GP.
Throughout October we’re reminding women to be aware of changes in their breasts and report anything unusual to their doctor. It is also important to have your regular mammogram from age 50, or younger if your risk is increased.
Over the past 18 months, the ever changing COVID-19 pandemic has affected cancer screening immensely with Cancer Australia seeing a significant reduction in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for breast cancer in 2020 compared to 2019 (pre-COVID-19).
At Peter Mac, all our patients receive coordinated, comprehensive and multidisciplinary cancer care from our specialist breast cancer service.
The multidisciplinary team includes specialist breast surgeons, breast radiologists, breast pathologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists and plastic surgeons in association with specialist breast care nurse consultants, psychologists and additional allied health services as needed.
Screening
While BreastScreen Australia has remained open during the majority of Victoria’s lockdown periods, they too have felt the effects of this pandemic.
There is high demand for the breast screening at the moment due to COVID-19, so BreastScreen advises booking an appointment as soon as you are due.
BreastScreen is the right service for you if you have no breast symptoms. If you notice an unusual change to the look and feel of your breasts, see your doctor as soon as possible
You can book an appointment at any BreastScreen Victoria clinic that is convenient for you. Visit their website or call 13 20 50
