Cancer Council WA issue timely reminder for southern Wheatbelt women to check for breast cancer symptoms

October is breast cancer awareness month and Cancer Council WA is taking the chance to remind southern Wheatbelt women of the common symptoms. Wheatbelt regional educational officer Kaylor Andrews said regional women were known to delay visiting a medical clinic when they were experiencing symptoms. “The latest data reveals that in 2019, 1890 females in WA were diagnosed with breast cancer accounting for almost a third of all cancer cases diagnosed in women, and 252 women in WA died from the disease,” she said. “In the Wheatbelt in 2019, 54 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and six died from it. Ms Andrews said many women experienced self-doubt about the existence of a symptom. “If you’re unsure about a possible symptom you should make an appointment to discuss the change with your doctor, clinic nurse or Aboriginal health worker as soon as possible,” she said. “This is particularly important if it’s been more than four weeks since you first noticed the change. “Being breast aware and knowing what to look for could help find breast cancer early, which increases the chance of successful treatment. “Everyone’s breasts are different and It is important that you get to know what your breasts look and feel like, so you know what is normal for you. There is no right or wrong way to check your breasts.” Common symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or hard area in the breast or underarm, changes in the appearance of breasts with either skin colour or texture, changes to the nipple or breast pain and discomfort. For more information, visit Cancer Council WA or your GP.