Body

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and here are some facts worth knowing.

  • Women can have breast cancer without any symptoms
  • Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer amongst women in Australia. 
  • Approximately 57 Australians are diagnosed every day, this equates to over 20,000 Australians diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
  • 1 in 7 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
  • In 2023, over 3,200 Australian will pass away from breast cancer (including 30-40 males).
  • Approximately one woman under the age of 40 is expected to die each week from breast cancer.
Dr. Mariam Chaalan
@‌ask.the.dr

The death rates from breast cancer in Australia have reduced by over 40% since the early 1990s thanks largely to research in prevention, early detection, and new and improved breast cancer treatments. 

Breast Cancer Self Awareness

Even if you have two-yearly mammograms, it is still important to be breast-aware because breast cancer can develop at any time. This includes the time in between screening appointments.

Breast Self-Awareness can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel – the best time to do a breast exam is a few days after your period finishes. If you no longer have periods – set a start date and stick to that date every month. Finding breast cancer early provides the best chance of surviving the disease. Remember you don’t need to be an expert or use a special technique to check your breasts.
Changes to look for include:

  • a new lump or lumpiness, especially if it’s only in one breast
  • a change in the size or shape of your breast
  • a change to the nipple, such as crusting, ulcer, redness or inversion
  • a nipple discharge that occurs without squeezing
  • a change in the skin of your breast such as redness or dimpling
  • an unusual pain that doesn’t go away.

Ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer:

  • Be breast aware
  • Maintain a healthy body weight
  • Be physically active every day
  • Avoid alcohol or reduce the amount you drink
  • Eat a healthy diet that is high in vegetables, fruit, legumes, and whole grains, such
  • as wholemeal pasta, noodles, bread, brown rice, oats, and couscous.
  • Aim for two serves of fruit and five servings of vegetables each day.
  • Eat less red meat and avoid processed meats such as bacon, ham, and salami.
  • Quit smoking

 

BreastScreen NSW is free, and an appointment only takes 20 minutes. That’s 20 minutes every 2 years that could save your life. Screening is done by a mammogram (x-ray of the breasts).  I often get asked “Does having a mammogram hurt?” You may find having a mammogram is uncomfortable. This is because your breasts need to be pressed firmly between two plates on the mammogram machine so that a clear picture can be taken. It is normal to feel discomfort, but this should only last a few seconds.

This screening is only for women who don’t have symptoms in their breasts. If you do have symptoms, I urge you to see your doctor for a breast exam.

Call BreastScreen NSW on 13 20 50 to book a free mammogram or visit breastscreen.nsw.gov.au for more information

No referral is required for a breast screen.

For mor information visit https://www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au/ or visit your GP. 

More Information about the author

Dr. Mariam Chaalan
@‌ask.the.dr

Dr. Mariam Chaalan is a family doctor, clinical researcher and a devoted mother to twin boys. She actively works to improve health literacy through her presence on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where she can be found at @‌ask.the.dr. She collaborates with @‌pinkelephantssupport to provide support and guidance to parents navigating the challenging journey of miscarriage and infertility, a topic that holds a special place in her heart. Her dedication to advocacy extends beyond social media. Dr. Mariam represented the Medical Women's Society at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women and has contributed articles to respected publications like the SMH and Mamamia. She is a regular guest on The Project and offers health, leadership, and lifestyle advice to prominent companies and schools. As a co-founder of Taste Bubs, Dr. Mariam is actively involved in Australia's first early allergen introduction product. With a focus on reducing allergies in children, she strives to make a difference in the lives of families across the country.

More Information about the author

Dr. Mariam Chaalan
@‌ask.the.dr

Dr. Mariam Chaalan is a family doctor, clinical researcher and a devoted mother to twin boys. She actively works to improve health literacy through her presence on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where she can be found at @‌ask.the.dr. She collaborates with @‌pinkelephantssupport to provide support and guidance to parents navigating the challenging journey of miscarriage and infertility, a topic that holds a special place in her heart. Her dedication to advocacy extends beyond social media. Dr. Mariam represented the Medical Women's Society at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women and has contributed articles to respected publications like the SMH and Mamamia. She is a regular guest on The Project and offers health, leadership, and lifestyle advice to prominent companies and schools. As a co-founder of Taste Bubs, Dr. Mariam is actively involved in Australia's first early allergen introduction product. With a focus on reducing allergies in children, she strives to make a difference in the lives of families across the country.