The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported a 35 per cent decline in mammograms in Victoria between January to June 2020.
“The decrease is concerning because it means thousands of people could potentially miss early diagnosis,” McGrath Breast Care nurse at Echuca Regional Health Megan Farrell said.
“Breast cancer is often easier to treat when it’s caught at an earlier stage than more advanced breast cancer.”
One in seven Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Ms Farrell said people need to ensure they were carrying out a self-exam at the same time every month.
“At the McGrath Foundation we say, ‘if you grow them, you need to know them’,” she said.
“This means they’ll be able to identify if anything abnormal develops.”
To complete a breast check, follow the three simple steps of ‘Look, Feel, Learn’:
- Look - at the shape and appearance of your breasts and nipples in the mirror with your hands by your sides, then raise your arms above your head and have another look.
- Feel - your breasts and nipples, looking for anything that isn’t normal for you. Feel from your collarbone to below the bra-line and under your armpit too.
- Learn - what is normal for you. Breasts come in all different shapes and sizes.
If you find anything unusual or abnormal while undertaking a self-exam, make an appointment with your GP or health service.
“It’s too soon to know exactly how COVID-19 will impact breast cancer diagnoses overall in Echuca,” Ms Farrell said.
“It’s important to note BreastScreen is open and operating with COVID-safe processes in place.
“Those who are eligible for mammograms need to ensure they are scheduling and attending these appointments and everyone should be conducting a self-breast exam once a month.”
The McGrath Foundation currently funds 151 breast care nurses who provide essential physical and emotional support free of charge to anyone experiencing breast cancer and their families.
To find out more and to donate visit www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au
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