All too often, breast checks are shoved into the “no thanks” basket – much like pap smears and colonoscopies! But all of these examinations are crucial to your health and can help detect major illnesses and catch them in the early stages giving you the best chance to treat them.

Breast checks are one of the easiest things you can do for your health to ensure that you don’t have any underlying problems. Not convinced? Here are some of the other reasons why breast checks are so important.

How to detect breast cancer

Early detection of breast cancer means you have the best possible chance of survival. The earlier an abnormality is discovered, the greater the number of effective treatment options available.

There are quite a few ways that breast cancer can be detected. These include:

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

While these methods can find cancer, it’s crucial to remain diligent and be breast aware to search for any abnormalities or changes. According to the NBCF, “A clinical breast examination is 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 image of the breast. They are used frequently to check for breast cancer in women – especially those that show no signs or symptoms of the disease. Screening mammograms involve two x-ray pictures of each breast that a radiographer analyses for signs of abnormality. Free routine mammographic screening is available in each state for women aged 50-74 through BreastScreen Australia.*

*Women aged 40-49, or over 75, are also entitled to a free mammogram. However, they receive no reminder prompts, as women aged 50-74 do.

Biopsy

A biopsy removes a small tissue sample from the breast or lymph nodes. This tissue is then sent off to be examined by a pathologist under a microscope. The biopsy process helps to conclude whether the sample provided contains any cancer cells. From here, an appropriate treatment plan can be determined.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

An MRI produces an image of the inside of your body using magnetic fields. Women under 50 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

Ultrasounds use sound waves to outline specific parts of your body. Breast ultrasounds are used to see if a lump found in the breast is solid or filled with fluid and are often used to check abnormal mammogram results.

More on mammograms

We touched on them briefly, but there is so much more to know about mammograms.

Screening mammograms

A screening mammogram is a test that checks the body for cancer before the person displays any symptoms. They are used to find breast cancer in women who have no breast cancer symptoms and can detect cancers that are too small to feel (they can be as small as a grain of rice!).

Diagnostic mammograms

Diagnostic mammograms are done to evaluate symptoms such as suspicious results found on a screening mammogram or other clinical signs of breast cancer (e.g., new lump or nipple discharge). The radiographer can tailor the examination to the patient during a diagnostic mammogram. This may mean taking additional images of the area of concern.

The benefits of mammograms

There are several benefits to having a screening mammogram. These include:

• Increased chance of surviving breast cancer
• Improved early detection
• Improved treatment options if diagnosed
• Free through BreastScreen and usually takes less than 30 minutes
  

When should you get your first mammogram, and how often do you need them?

Generally, women aged 50-74 are recommended to have a free screening mammogram every two years in Australia. For women aged 40-49 years old or over 75, it’s encouraged to speak with your doctor before deciding whether to get your free mammogram. Your doctor will help you consider potential benefits and risks.

For women at increased risk of breast cancer (such as women with a strong family history or genetic predisposition), it is recommended that an individualised screening program be developed with your general practitioner or specialist, which may include other imaging tests.

Screening mammograms may also be recommended for transgender and gender-diverse people who have a unique set of factors that affect their breast cancer risk. If you are transgender or gender diverse, please speak with your GP about your personal risk factors and the necessity for screening.

How to check your breasts

Your mammogram shouldn’t be the only time you check your breasts. It’s important to remain vigilant and monitor yourself for any changes. Get to know how your breasts feel during regular activities like showering, getting dressed, using moisturiser, or looking in the mirror.

No special techniques are required, but ensure you look at and feel your breasts regularly. This includes all parts of your breast, armpit and up to your collarbone. Breast checks should be done by women of all ages so unusual changes can be identified. This includes new lumps, thickening in the breast (especially if it’s only one breast), changes to the shape or size of the breast or changes to the shape of the nipple.

While monitoring for changes is crucial, it’s important to know that most breast changes aren’t caused by cancer, meaning that other medical conditions can cause the signs and symptoms. Regardless, any changes or symptoms developed should be reported to your GP immediately.

Being breast aware is crucial for all ages. Knowing your breasts and what is ‘normal’ for you could be the difference between early detection and effective treatment. Early detection can save your life.

At Biz Care, we are proud to partner with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. To view our pink range, head to our website.