Eumundi Voice - Issue 104, 17 October 2024

Early detection saves lives

You may have noticed a plethora of pink popping up around the place. Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) takes place throughout October and Wear it Pink events present an opportunity for individuals, schools, workplaces and communities to unite by wearing pink clothing or accessories to show their support for breast cancer awareness and research.

The events shine a light on the devastating impact breast cancer has on thousands of Australians each day. Approximately 17,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in Australia, and it remains the most common cancer among Australian women (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer).

Despite survival rates continuing to improve it is still important to be breast aware as early detection saves lives. People of all ages should

be familiar with the normal look and feel of their breasts. If you notice any of these changes always seek medical advice:

• A new lump or lumpiness, especially if it is only in one breast.

• A change in the size or shape of your breast

• A change to the nipple, such as crusting, ulcer, redness or inversion

• A nipple discharge that occurs without squeezing

• A change in the skin of your breast such as redness or dimpling

• An unusual pain that does not go away.

Other factors that can reduce breast cancer risk are avoiding excess weight gain, being physically active on most or all days of the week, a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables and limiting alcohol use.

For more information visit: t.ly/8SQec.