Margaret Lannen (Health Promotions Officer for Breast Screen for the region)
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Margaret said that the Breast Screen clinic is there to promote awareness and the screening of potential breast cancer patients.
Cancer is caused by abnormal cell growth of which the most common is breast cancer.
It cannot be prevented but if caught in early stages it can be controlled and in many cases cured. It begins in the ducts and nodules of the breast.
Statistics show that 1 in every 8 Australian women will get breast cancer. 75% of women are over 50.
Early detection is best. Any changes in the breasts need to be diagnosed and investigated.
Ways of protecting against having breast cancer is to maintain a healthy weight, regular exercise and limit alcohol consumption.
There are old untruths that exist but it has been determined that these are false.
Women will not get breast cancer from injury to the breast, use of deodorant, use of aluminum saucepans or mobile phones.
The breast screen clinic provides a free service to women at, Geelong, Warrnambool, Portland as well as a service provided by mobile units.
During a mammogram 2 images of each breast is taken and these are read by two specialists.
Comparison is made with previous tests.
Test results are available within 2 to 4 weeks.
Woman on the electoral roll are sent a reminder to have a test each 2 years from the age of 50.
The benefits of the service is to prevent occurrence of breast cancer and determine best ways it can be treated.
Websites which provide extra information for all women are
www.curvelurve.com.au - especially designed for younger women
www.breastscreen.org.au
www.cancervic.org.au
www.canceraustralia.gov.au
From the questions raised after the presentation, especially from the male members, indicated showed there was a genuine interest amongst the members.