Being 'Breast aware'
Because breast cancer affects women of all ages, it is important that all women, including young women, examine their breasts regularly to pick up any changes. Self-examination is important because if you’re aware of how your breasts normally look and feel, you’re more likely to notice a change if it develops.
In addition to seeing your doctor each year for a breast examination, you should check your breasts regularly. A good time to do this is after the last day of your menstrual cycle or if you do not have periods, the same date each month. Most women find that their breasts are easier to examine just after their period when any premenstrual pain and lumpiness have settled. You may check your breasts standing up, for example in the shower, or lying down, for example in bed before going to sleep. Your partner should also be alert and look for changes in your breasts.
If you find a change in your Breast, don’t panic
Most changes in the breast are not related to breast cancer. However, if you do find a change in your breast or a lump, it is important to visit your GP immediately.
Remember, the sooner you see your GP after finding a change in your breast, the better
Your GP will conduct a clinical breast examination to determine whether you will need further testing.
Take control of your health – you can help protect yourself against breast cancer
Unfortunately, many of us will know someone who has been touched by breast cancer, which affects one in eight Australian women – but you can help protect yourself against the disease.
More women are surviving breast cancer than ever before due to better testing and treatment.
Breast cancer survival is now up to 85 percent. The smaller a breast cancer is, the simpler the treatment and the better the outcome.
Early detection has been proven to save lives. Be ‘Breast aware’ and check your breasts regularly.
Download the ‘Breast aware’ booklet here
After my diagnosis with breast cancer at 31, I can tell you firsthand that breast cancer doesn’t just happen to older women – it can happen to anyone, even young women.
My message to you is to be ‘Breast aware’ by regularly checking your breasts for any changes or lumps. The sooner you find a change and go to see your GP, the better.
Please accept this booklet as a gift from the McGrath Foundation - your guide on how you can become ‘Breast aware’. Keep this booklet where you will be reminded to do your breast check. It could save your life.
Jane McGrath Founder, McGrath Foundation
About the McGrath foundation:
The McGrath Foundation was founded by Jane and Glenn McGrath after Jane’s initial recovery from breast cancer. The McGrath Foundation aims to raise money to place breast care nurses in rural and regional Australia as well as educating young women to be ‘breast aware’.
To find out how you can get involved, please visit www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au or call 1800 183 338.
