“Get the Facts” about breast cancer this World Cancer Day, held annually on 4 February.

Facts about screening

• A standard screening mammogram appointment with BreastScreen WA only takes 15 minutes, with the procedure itself only taking a few minutes to complete. Longer appointments may be required for those with mobility restrictions, breast implants, using a wheelchair, or requiring an interpreter.
• To obtain a clear picture and to minimise the radiation dose, the breast is positioned and compressed between two flat plates. This may be uncomfortable, but only lasts a few seconds. 

Facts about risk

• Most women who are diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease.
• For a small number of women, the nature of their family history may require them to attend more frequently for a screening mammogram.
• If you are concerned about your family history of breast cancer, you should discuss your individual circumstances with your GP or family doctor.

Facts about breast cancer

• 1 in 7 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
• 56 people are diagnosed with breast cancer every day.
• Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among women.
• Breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in Australia, after prostate cancer.
• The majority of breast cancers (over 75%) occur in women aged over 50.
• In the last 10 years, breast cancer diagnoses have increased by around 15%.

Eligibility

Women aged 50 to 74 years are encouraged to attend BreastScreen WA for a free screening mammogram every 2 years. You can book your mammogram online now, or call 13 20 50.

Source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare