Carers need to take time for breast health

Keperra resident Jenny Strachan is one of more than 474,000 unpaid carers in Queensland who provide care and support to a family member.

However, like many other carers she often puts her own health needs on hold.

Recently, Ms Strachan was encouraged to take some time for her own health checks by having a breast screen at her local BreastScreen Queensland service following a visit to a recent health care expo.

“I was actually very overdue for my breast screen,” Ms Strachan said.

“I had received a couple of reminder letters and just never seemed to get around to it.

“After talking to the BreastScreen Queensland ladies at the expo about how important this health check is for women over 50, I decided to do it for myself and my family.

“I’m so glad now that I have taken the time to have my mammogram.”

BreastScreen Queensland’s Brisbane Northside Service Medical Director Dr Jane Brazier urged all women aged 50 to 74 years to have their breast screen every two years, as most breast cancers are found in this age group. Women in their forties and over 75 years are also eligible to have a free breast screen.

“Family comes first for most women, so finding time to look after their health can be quite hard,” Dr Brazier said.

Dr Brazier said that being a woman and getting older were the two main risk factors for developing breast cancer.

“A breast screen is the most effective method of detecting breast cancer at a very early stage even before a lump can be felt. Finding breast cancer at an early stage gives a woman the best possible chance for successful treatment and wellbeing,” she said.

Women are also reminded to be ‘breast aware’ by getting to know the normal look and feel of their breasts. Dr Brazier advised women to see their doctor without delay if they notice any changes.

BreastScreen Queensland Services are located at Keperra, North Lakes, Chermside, Kippa-Ring, Indooroopilly and Brisbane City.

Appointments only take about 20 minutes and can be made by phoning 13 20 50 or can be booked online at www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au. A doctor’s referral is not required.