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Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer in women - it will affect 1 in 7 Australian women before the age of 85
The incidence of breast cancer increases with age. The cause of breast cancer is unknown. A strong family history of the disease may indicate an increased risk, however 90 % of women developing breast cancer do not have a family history.. Other risk factors include:
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MAMMOGRAMS
Screening mammograms have been shown to be the most effective way to diagnose breast cancer at an early stage in women between 50 and 70 years.
The earlier the stage of detection the higher the rate of cure and simpler the treatment required.
There is less evidence for the value of screening mammography between 40 and 50 years and after 74 years of age.
Mammography has also not been shown to be an effective means of screening before 40. Where mammograms are not an option an ultrasound and/or MRI may be prescribed but these may incur additional costs.
Screening mammograms should be done every 2 years.
Having regular mammograms reduces the risk of dying from breast cancer by 40 %.
BreastScreen SA provides a FREE screening mammography service.
All women should perform regular breast self examination, in addition to mammography.
The earlier the stage of detection the higher the rate of cure and simpler the treatment required.
There is less evidence for the value of screening mammography between 40 and 50 years and after 74 years of age.
Mammography has also not been shown to be an effective means of screening before 40. Where mammograms are not an option an ultrasound and/or MRI may be prescribed but these may incur additional costs.
Screening mammograms should be done every 2 years.
Having regular mammograms reduces the risk of dying from breast cancer by 40 %.
BreastScreen SA provides a FREE screening mammography service.
All women should perform regular breast self examination, in addition to mammography.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE:
All women between 50 and 74 years are strongly recommended to undertake screening mammography - once in the program they will be notified when their next test is due.
Women between 40 and 50, and those over 74 may attend if they choose.
** Screening mammograms are for women with NO SYMPTOMS.
**If symptoms such as a breast lump, soreness or nipple discharge are present you must consult your doctor.
SCREENING FOR WOMEN WITH A STRONG FAMILY HISTORY:
Women with a STRONG FAMILY HISTORY of breast cancer are eligible for screening mammography EVERY YEAR from age 40.
A strong family history is present in any of the following circumstances :
CONTACT DETAILS:
More details about breast cancer and South Australian screening mammography services, including locations and times may be found on
Breast Screen SA's website. Appointments can be made by phoning 13 20 50.
All women between 50 and 74 years are strongly recommended to undertake screening mammography - once in the program they will be notified when their next test is due.
Women between 40 and 50, and those over 74 may attend if they choose.
** Screening mammograms are for women with NO SYMPTOMS.
**If symptoms such as a breast lump, soreness or nipple discharge are present you must consult your doctor.
SCREENING FOR WOMEN WITH A STRONG FAMILY HISTORY:
Women with a STRONG FAMILY HISTORY of breast cancer are eligible for screening mammography EVERY YEAR from age 40.
A strong family history is present in any of the following circumstances :
- a first degree relative (mother, sister, daughter, father, brother, son) with breast cancer diagnosed before 50 years of age.
- a first degree relative with breast cancer in both breasts, diagnosed at any age.
- two or more first degree relatives with breast cancer at any age.
CONTACT DETAILS:
More details about breast cancer and South Australian screening mammography services, including locations and times may be found on
Breast Screen SA's website. Appointments can be made by phoning 13 20 50.
