New BreastScreen NSW campaign urges women to get screened
A new BreastScreen NSW campaign is urging women to prioritise their health and book in their free mammogram today, before it’s too late.
With more than 50 per cent of NSW women aged 50-74 behind on their breast cancer screening, the new campaign – launching today across TV, radio and online – warns women that while you’re living life, 'breast cancer doesn't wait'.
Professor Tracey O’Brien, NSW Chief Cancer Officer and CEO, Cancer Institute NSW, says the campaign aims to encourage women to put themselves first.
It was developed after research found many women were not having regular breast screens because they were too busy.
“For women aged 50–74, a breast screen every two years is still the best way to detect and treat breast cancer early – before it can be seen or felt,” Professor O’Brien says.
“Unfortunately, breast cancer is expected to take the lives of close to 1,000 women in NSW this year and we need to do everything we can to detect and treat breast cancer as early as possible.
“As a working mum and professional, I know how hard it can be to block out time for yourself.
“A breast screen is quick and easy and if the cancer is detected early, it can significantly increase your chance of survival.”
While a record number of women have returned to the BreastScreen NSW service over the past few months, there are still more than 625,000 women who haven’t booked in for their breast screen.
A breast screen, or mammogram, takes 20 minutes and is available for free at more than 250 BreastScreen NSW clinics and mobile sites.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with one in seven women set to be diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime.
BreastScreen NSW services are recommended for women aged 50–74 years, with no breast symptoms. The service is available for women from 40 years.
For more information and to make an appointment, call 13 20 50 from anywhere in Australia or book online.
The Cancer Institute NSW is encouraging people and organisations across the state to get involved in the campaign and help share the important message.
For more information, visit www.cancer.nsw.gov.au/breast-cancer-doesnt-wait.
