At Southern Medical Moss Vale and Bundanoon, serving Moss Vale, Bundanoon, Bowral, Mittagong, and nearby areas, we believe informed patients are empowered patients. Breast cancer remains a significant health concern for Australian women, and to a lesser extent, men. Understanding the disease, recognising potential warning signs, and knowing when to seek professional advice are crucial steps in early detection and successful treatment.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast begin to grow out of control. These cells usually form a tumour that can often be seen on an X-ray or felt as a lump. While most breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous), it’s vital to have any new lump or change checked by a doctor. Breast cancer can spread to other parts of the body, but when detected early, treatment is often highly effective.
Types of Breast Cancer
There are several types of breast cancer, with the most common being:
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC): This is the most common type, where cancer cells begin in the milk ducts and then spread into surrounding breast tissue.
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC): This type starts in the lobules (glands that produce milk) and spreads to the surrounding tissue.
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): Considered a non-invasive or pre-invasive cancer, where abnormal cells are found only in the lining of a milk duct and have not spread.
Understanding the type of breast cancer is important as it guides treatment decisions.
Key Warning Signs and Symptoms
While a lump is the most commonly known symptom, breast cancer can present in various ways. It’s important to be “breast aware” – this means knowing what’s normal for your breasts so you can quickly identify any changes.
Look out for:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit: This is the most common sign. Lumps can vary in size and texture.
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast: One breast might suddenly become larger or noticeably different in shape.
- Changes to the nipple: This could include a turned-in (inverted) nipple, a rash or sore on or around the nipple, or any discharge from the nipple (especially if it’s bloody or occurs without squeezing).
- Changes to the skin of the breast: Look for dimpling, puckering, redness, or a texture similar to an orange peel (peau d’orange).
- Persistent pain in the breast or armpit: While most breast pain is not cancer-related, persistent or unexplained pain should be investigated.
- Swelling in the armpit or around the collarbone: This could indicate swollen lymph nodes.
Remember, these symptoms don’t automatically mean you have breast cancer, but they do mean you should see a doctor as soon as possible for assessment.
Risk Factors
While some risk factors are out of our control, understanding them can help with awareness:
- Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age.
- Family History: Having a close relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has had breast cancer, especially at a young age, increases your risk.
- Genetic Mutations: Certain gene mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2) significantly increase risk.
- Dense Breasts: Denser breast tissue can make mammograms harder to read and may be associated with a higher risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity can also increase risk.
Early Detection is Key
Regular self-checks, clinical breast examinations by a doctor, and screening mammograms are crucial for early detection.
- Self-Checks: Get to know your breasts. Regularly check them for any changes using a systematic approach.
- Clinical Breast Examinations: Your GP at Southern Medical Moss Vale and Bundanoon can perform a clinical breast examination as part of your routine check-ups.
- Mammograms: For women aged 50-74, a free screening mammogram every two years is recommended through BreastScreen Australia. If you have a higher risk, your doctor may recommend starting earlier or having them more frequently.
If you notice any changes in your breasts, no matter how small or insignificant they seem, please do not hesitate to contact Southern Medical Moss Vale and Bundanoon. Our team is here to provide compassionate care, conduct thorough examinations, and guide you through any necessary diagnostic steps. Your health is our priority.
We’re here to support the health and well-being of our community across Moss Vale, Bundanoon, Bowral, Mittagong, and beyond.
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