Around ninety per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease.
The statistic is part of official health messaging as operators of a BreastScreen NSW mobile clinic announce a visit to the Tweed Shire’s Knox Park next month.
Free breast screening is to be available in the van with Acting Director of BreastScreen North Coast Emma Cronin saying a regular breast screen is one of the most important things women can do for their health.
‘Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy,’ Ms Cronin said via media release.
She said the van would be in the middle of Knox Park in Murwillumbah from 19 – 21 March.
‘Bringing these vital services to Murwillumbah means more local women can be screened,’ Ms Cronin said, ‘life gets busy and we want to help women make their health a priority.’
Clients would be able to park either on Nullum Street or in the Knox Park car park.
Women of all abilities welcome
Appointments are free and designed to take less than 20 minutes.
Doctor’s referrals are unnecessary but women with a family history of breast cancer should discuss their specific needs with their GP, the media release said.
Women aged fifty and older are being invited to use the van service for. a breast screen every two years.
There is a lift system available in the van so women with health conditions and disabilities can receive a mammogram while women with extra needs are encouraged to let operators know when booking their appointment.
Appointments are available via 13 20 50 or book.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au.
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