Take the time to get to know the normal look and feel of your breasts as part of your daily routine, for example, while showering, dressing, putting on body lotion or simply looking in the mirror. You don’t have to be an expert or use a special technique.
Knowing what’s normal for you will help you to detect any new breast changes.
If you find a breast change that is unusual for you, see your GP without delay. Nine out of ten breast changes are not due to cancer, but see your doctor to be sure.
BreastScreen Australia offers free screening mammograms every two years for women aged 40 years and over. Mammograms are not as effective for women in the 40–49 year age group as they are for older women because breasts are denser in this age group than for older women, making any early signs of breast cancer more difficult to see.
Generally, breasts become less dense as women get older, particularly after the menopause, which is why mammograms become more effective closer to 50 years of age.
Talk to your doctor about whether screening mammograms are suitable for you.
To make an appointment for a screening mammogram, call BreastScreen Australia on 13 20 50 for the cost of a local call anywhere in Australia.