Facts About Breast Cancer

by POPSUGAR Beauty AU 0

Breast cancer is the most-commonly diagnosed cancer amongst women, affecting 1 in 8 Australian women in their lifetime. In 2012, a staggering 14, 610 Australian women are predicted to be diagnosed with breast cancer but 89 percent of them will survive at least five years after diagnosis.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so we've been sharing ways that you can support the cause (and keep your eyes peeled for more!) but there’s something you can do for free: spread the word that early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer.

Keep reading . . .

Know your stuff

• Breast cancer mainly affects women over the age of 50
• Women aged 50-69 are recommended to have a mammographic screening every two years
• Through BreastScreen Australia, free mammograms are available to ALL women aged 40+
• You don’t have to think there is anything wrong to have a mammogram — they can be used purely as a prevention to check that everything is okay
• Between mammograms, or if you are under 40, it’s still important to be aware of any chances in your breasts — things such as a swelling or a lump in the breast or armpit area; an irritated rash or discharge from the nipple or general and unexpected pain in the breast area — and report any changes to your GP who will, if necessary, conduct any tests.