Take notice of early cancer signs

Cancer Council WA is urging everyone in the South West region to take Breast Cancer Awareness Month as an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the common symptoms of breast cancer.

South West Regional Educational Officer Julie Rose said women from regional WA were known to delay going to a medical clinic when they were experiencing symptoms, with many experiencing self-doubt about the existence of the symptom.

“The latest data reveals that in 2019, 1899 women and 15 men in WA were diagnosed with breast cancer, and 259 women and one man lost their lives to it,” Julie said.

“In the South West in 2019, 180 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 21 lost their lives to it.

“If you’re unsure about a possible symptom, you should make an appointment to discuss the change with your doctor, clinic nurse or Aboriginal health worker as soon as possible.

“This is particularly important if it’s been more than four weeks since you first noticed the change.

“Everyone’s breasts are different. It is important that you get to know what your breasts look and feel like, so you know what is normal for you. There is no right or wrong way to check your breasts.”

Being breast aware means getting to know what is normal for you; common symptoms of breast cancer include:

You can give yourself the best chance to find cancer early by going to see a doctor, clinic nurse or Aboriginal health worker straight away if you have any of the symptoms above.

The benefits to finding cancer early are that treatment is easier, and you can be around longer to do the things you love doing with the people you love.

For more information about breast cancer symptoms, visit www.findcancerearly.com.au or call the Cancer Council Information and Support Line on 13 11 20.

Breast cancer can occur without symptoms, so another way to detect it early is to take part in the National BreastScreen Australia Program every two years with BreastScreen WA.

Women aged 40 years and above are eligible to participate. Screening mammograms are intended for those without symptoms. If you notice any symptoms, see your doctor, clinic nurse or Aboriginal health worker straight away, as waiting for your screening appointment when you have a symptom could delay your diagnosis and cancer treatment.