Forty per cent of eligible women in the Edward River Council area are not screening for breast cancer.
That was the startling figure presented to more than 100 people in attendance at a special women’s health event in Deniliquin last week.
BreastScreen NSW health promotion officer Heather Hillam was one of three guest speakers at Deniliquin Local Health Advisory Committee’s Women’s Wellbeing Night last Wednesday.
Other guest speakers included breast cancer survivor and Deniliquin Can Assist co-founder Bianca Armytage and Murrumbidgee Local Health District women’s health nurse Cathy Kerr who spoke about cervical cancer screening.
In her address, Heather said 75 per cent of breast cancer diagnoses occur in women aged 50 to 74, which is why this age group is offered free testing every two years.
But she said women are eligible from age 40, and women with a family history of breast cancer - especially those under 50 - are eligible for screenings once a year.
Heather explained the importance of screening is detecting breast cancer early, which can increase chances of survival.
“A mammogram can pick up cancers that cannot be seen or felt,” she said.
“In New South Wales, one in seven women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
“And nine in 10 women who do have breast cancer have no family history of breast cancer.
“For women over 50 years, a mammogram is the most effective method of finding breast cancer early.
“Detecting breast cancer early increases your chance of survival while reducing the likelihood of invasive treatment, such as mastectomy or chemotherapy.”
Heather said the BreastScreen NSW mobile clinic will be in Deniliquin for two months this year, from May 22 to July 21.
BreastScreen NSW mobile vans include the latest digital mammography technology and a secure wireless communication system.
Women eligible for free screening are asked to book by phoning 13 20 50.
In her address, Cathy educated the women in the room on advances in cervical cancer detection and testing, which now includes a self swabbing kit.
Less invasive that the traditional pap smear test, all Australians with a cervix can now choose to collect a sample themselves with a cotton swab under the supervision of a healthcare professional who also offers cervical screening.
The test is just as effective at detecting human papillomavirus and preventing cervical cancer, but is not available to all women so make sure to speak with your health provider about the option.
The National Cervical Screening Program reduces illness and death from cervical cancer and screening should take place every five years from the time you are 25.
If you are unsure when your next test is, speak to your local doctor or call the National Cancer Screening Register on 1800 627 701.
Adding to the health education focus of the night, a group of local nurses provided mini health checks on the night.
They looked at blood pressure, body mass index and conducted blood sugar tests.
But just as important on the night was the chance to network and socialise, listen to delightful music from Deni band Ruby Saltbush and to raise funds for Deniliquin Can Assist.
A raffle and auction of an original painting by local artist Fiona Waters, raised $3400 for the group, which will support locals undergoing cancer treatment.
Deniliquin LHAC chair Lourene Liebenberg said it was a successful night.
“Thanks to each and everyone who attended, and to everyone who helped to make this night a success,“ she said.
“This event was made possible by funding from Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network through the Australian Governement's PHN program.
“Thank you to the businesses and individuals who donated raffle prizes, and to Fi Waters for the awesome painting.
“This painting was purchased by Angela and Carla, who have donated it to Deniliquin Health Service to be displayed in the medial imaging department.
“Getting funding is but one part of hosting an event ; the success of any event is the collaboration between organisations and groups and the behind-the -scenes work of dozens of people.”