BREAST CHECK

Thanks for scanning the tag on your new LSKD Sports Bra. Early detection saves lives.

9 Australians lose their life to breast cancer every day. Survival rates are over 90% with early detection so please keep reading and share this page with friends and family to find out what you can do RIGHT NOW. It is important to be aware of how your breasts normally look and feel, so that you can identify any unusual changes. We put together a few things to look out for.

 

 

Early detection of breast cancer gives the best possible chance of survival. The earlier an abnormality is discovered, the greater the number of effective treatment options available. This ensures the best possible outcome.

There are many ways breast cancer can be detected. These include:

    • Clinical examination
    • Mammograms
    • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
    • Ultrasound
    • Biopsy

However, it is important to be ‘breast aware’ and keep a look out for any changes in the breast.

 

CLINICAL EXAMINATION

A clinical breast examination involves a thorough physical examination of your whole breast area done by a healthcare professional. This includes breasts, nipples, armpits and the collarbone. You will also be asked about your personal and family history of breast cancer, and if you have noticed any changes in your breasts.

 

MAMMOGRAMS

A mammogram is an x-ray picture of your breast. Mammograms are used to regularly check for breast cancer in women who may present with no signs or symptoms of the disease. Screening mammograms involve two x-ray pictures of each breast that are analysed by a radiographer for signs of abnormality. Free routine mammographic screening is available in each state for women aged 50-74 through BreastScreen Australia.

 

MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)

An MRI produces an image of the inside of your body using magnetic fields. Women under 50 years of age who are at high risk of breast cancer are eligible for routine screenings with MRI through Medicare. To access this service, younger women must be referred by their GP or specialist.

 

ULTRASOUND

An ultrasound uses soundwaves to outline a part of your body. A breast ultrasound is used to see whether a lump found in the breast is solid or filled with fluid. An ultrasound is often used to check abnormal results from a mammogram.

 

BIOPSY

A biopsy is the removal of a small sample of tissue from the breast or lymph nodes. The tissue is then examined by a pathologist (specialist doctor) under a microscope. This process helps to determine if the sampled tissue has any cancer cells. It also helps to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

 

BREAST AWARENESS

It’s important to be familiar with your breasts so that you’re alert of any changes that might occur in the breast region. If you experience any symptoms such as lumps, dimples, discharge or discolouration, head to your doctor for further examination. It’s also important to be remember that finding a lump doesn’t mean that you have cancer; most lumps are benign (not cancer). So, don’t panic if you do find a change, make an appointment with your doctor for further evaluation.

 

For more information, speak to our partners at Keep A Breast.