Breast cancer is the most common cancer (excluding non-melanocytic skin cancer) in Australian women.
One in 11 Australian women (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Report, Cancer in Australia 1998) is diagnosed with breast cancer. While the cause of the disease is unknown, it is likely that a number of factors, some known and many unknown, work together to trigger its growth.
For females, the factors which are known to increase the risk of developing breast cancer include:
- Ageing, as breast cancer is most common in woman over 50 years of age, although it can occur in younger woman
- Having a family history of breast cancer.
- Not having children or having a first child when over the age of 30.
- Early menstruation or late menopause.
- Having previously had breast, ovary, uterus, bone or soft tissue cancer.
Having several of these risk factors does not mean that a woman will develop breast cancer. Many women with breast cancer have no known risk factors. Early detection of breast cancer is the key to successful treatment and survival.
What you can do
Be aware of the usual look and feel of your breasts and see your doctor if you notice any changes. See your doctor for a regular breast examination, and ask about the value of a mammogram as part of your regular breast screening. If you are over 50, The Cancer Council Australia recommends a mammogram every two years.
Breast screening is free through BreastScreen Australia to all women over 40. Contact BreastScreen Australia on 13 20 50 for more information. If you would like to know more, contact the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.