GET THE FACTS ON BREAST CHECKS
Early detection is your best line of defence
One in seven Australian women will develop breast cancer at some time in their life. Because early detection gives the best possible chance of survival, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with breast checks. Here, we answer some of your biggest questions.
WHEN SHOULD I START DOING BREAST CHECKS?
If you’re not already performing regular checks, breast oncoplastic surgeon Dr Samriti Sood says the time to get started is now. “Essentially, earlier the better, and
While breast cancer is more common in women over 50, it can happen to younger women, too. Around 150 men in Australia are also diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
the process is simple and shouldn’t be daunting, so creating the habit younger is preferable,” she explains.
WHEN SHOULD I HAVE MY FIRST MAMMOGRAM?
“For women over 50 years of age, it is recommended to book in a regular mammogram every two years, however it is very reasonable to commence mammograms from the age of 40,” says Dr Sood. “It’s also important to note that if you have a family history of breast cancer, if at least one family member has had breast cancer at a young age, if your breasts are very dense or quite lumpy, or any other risk factors for breast cancer, I recommend an annual mammogram screening test.”
ARE THERE ANY OTHER TESTS THAT I NEED?
“A breast ultrasound is very important to be done in conjunction with a mammogram, particularly for women aged between 30-55, where women tend to have denser breasts which a mammogram alone may not be an accurate form of screening,” says Dr Sood. “A breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) can also be used for screening in high-risk individuals who have a very strong family history of breast cancer or carry a gene mutation that puts them at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.”
DO I NEED A GENE TEST?
Your GP can help you to assess if you qualify for a free government gene test. One thing they will ask you about is your family history, on your mother and father’s side. “If a direct family member such as a mother, sister, cousin, aunt have been diagnosed before the age of 50 or if multiple family members have had a diagnosis, a gene test is recommended,” says Sarah Powell, CEO of Pink Hope. However, if you don’t qualify you can still get tested. “You can self-fund a genetic test, which can cost approximately $700,” she explains. “You can also do a genetic test through a company such as Invitae for around $400.”
WHAT IF I FIND A LUMP?
If you do find a lump, Dr Sood says there is no need to panic. “Some breast lumps are benign (non cancerous), however if you do feel a lump on your breast, you need to seek medical advice,” she advises. “Any breast lump you have felt should be investigated by your doctor, preferably with a clinical examination, mammogram, and ultrasound. Lumps also generally require a biopsy.”