We spoke with BreastScreen Australia on the importance of regular breast screenings and the Rose Clinic, our instore service providing free screening checks.
Tell us about BreastScreen Australia; what is the vision of the organisation and why is your partnership with David Jones valued?
BreastScreen Australia is a joint initiative of the Australian and state and territory governments aiming to reduce illness and death from breast cancer by detecting the disease early.
Regular breast screening for eligible people is the best way to find cancer early.
Our partnership with David Jones brings Australians a unique breast screening experience with a welcoming and comfortable environment inside David Jones. With over 750 BreastScreen Australia locations nationally, the Rose Clinic is part of a network of services providing free screening checks for eligible people.
Why is it important to have regular breast screens?
One in seven Australian women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. A regular breast screen can detect cancer as small as a grain of rice before it can be seen or felt. Regular breast screening can detect changes in your breasts over time.
Finding breast cancer early can lead to better outcomes and less invasive treatment options.
What age should someone consider their first breast screening and how regularly should they screen ongoing?
The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Over 75% of breast cancers are detected in those 50 to 74.
As such, local state-based services will invite eligible people aged 50 to 74 to book a free breast screen every two years. Eligible people aged 40 to 49, and 75+ can also have a free breast screen but are encouraged to speak with a health professional about whether a mammogram is right for them.
Where are the Rose Clinics located and how does someone book an appointment?
Rose Clinics are located across Australia in NSW, VIC, QLD, WA and SA. Booking is simple, call 13 20 50 and you’ll be put in touch with your local clinic. Some states may also have online booking services available: Book Now
What should people expect during a breast screen appointment?
A breast screen appointment should take approximately 20 minutes; you could fit an appointment into your lunch break.
A radiographer will perform your screening mammogram, collect your forms and talk you through the process.
You’ll go into a private X-ray room and be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up. The radiographer will then place one breast between the plates on the X-ray machine to take the image.
You may find having a breast screen is uncomfortable, but it should never hurt. If you feel any pain, please tell the radiographer at the time so they can assist you.
Make sure to wear a two-piece outfit and bring along your Medicare card.
What should people be looking out for when it comes to changes to their breasts, either in between screenings or for those not yet eligible for screening?
We recommend everyone is breast-aware by checking their breasts regularly. Breast cancer can develop at any time and you should become familiar with the shape, feel and look of your breasts.
Watch out for:
- A new lump or lumpiness, especially in just one breast
- Changes in breast size, shape or colour
- Changes in the nipples, like redness, discharge or inversion (turned inside out)
- Skin changes, such as dimpling, swelling and bulging
- Irritation or rashes
- Pain that doesn’t go away
If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor immediately. The changes are often nothing serious, but it’s best to be sure.
You can learn more about breast health awareness on Cancer Australia’s website.
Cancer screening could save your life.
We encourage those eligible to prioritise their health this Breast Cancer Awareness Month and make that appointment. It’s easy, quick and free. To book your appointment call 13 20 50
Support is available for people diagnosed with breast cancer through organisations including the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Breast Cancer Network Australia, the McGrath Foundation and Cancer Council.
As the National Breast Cancer Foundation marks its 30th anniversary – with David Jones as a founding partner – we chat to ambassador Vanessa Chappelow about Perspective, Positivity And The Power Of Family.