Breast Screen coming to North West

ELIGIBLE women are being encouraged to book in for breast cancer screening with Breast Screen soon coming to the North West.

Women aged 40 years or older are eligible to attend and the recommended breast screening age is 50 to 74 years.

More than 75 per cent of breast cancers occur in women over 50.

Regular breast screens are the best way to find breast cancer early.

The Breast Screen van will be at Wee Waa Hospital from 24 to 27 August, The Crossing Theatre car park from 28 August to 23 September, and Boggabri MPS from 24 to 28 September.

“We know life gets busy, and many women tell us it can be hard to make time for health checks. But a breast screen takes just 20 minutes – and it could make a life-changing difference,” Breast Screen NSW says.

Narrabri breast cancer survivor Dr Karen Kirkby, right, with Glen McGrath at a Pink Test in Sydney, has encouraged both women and men to be aware of changes to their breasts and raise any concerns with their GP. Dr Kirkby has also encouraged eligible women to be checked when Breast Screen visits the Narrabri Shire, particularly highlighting women between the ages of 40 to 50. Photo: supplied.

“A breast screen is the best way to find breast cancer early, before it can be seen or felt. It is estimated that we would detect an additional 3,100 breast cancers if each eligible woman had their mammogram.

“By increasing screening rates, more cancers can be detected early, improving treatment options and saving lives.”

Narrabri breast cancer survivor Karen Kirkby, who recently started a local support group, has encouraged both women and men to be aware of changes to their breasts.

Dr Kirkby, a plant pathologist in Narrabri, was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2020.

After three surgeries and five months of chemotherapy treatment, she received the all-clear.

While men mightn’t feel comfortable reaching out to the Breast Screen team, Dr Kirkby encouraged them to contact their GP if they had concerns.

Dr Kirkby, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at 49 years, also strongly urged women between the ages of 40 to 50 to get checked.

“Many women I’ve known with breast cancer have been in their 40s,” she said.

“It takes just 10 minutes to make an appointment that could save your life.

“If the bus is there in town, get screened.”

Dr Kirkby encouraged all people to check their breasts and consult with their GP if they noticed changes or had concerns.

“You know your own body,” she said.

“I encourage everyone to reach out to the females in their life – their families and friends – to tap them on the shoulder and ask them if they’ve had their breast cancer screening.

“Early detection gives you the best chance at the best life you should have.”

Breast Screen bookings can be made online or contact 13 20 50.