Better Breast Health

Maintaining breast health is often near the bottom of women’s to-do lists — but understanding what’s normal for your body, recognising breast cancer symptoms, and participating in regular breast cancer screening can help detect potential problems early. In Australia, screening programs and improved awareness have dramatically increased the rates of breast cancer detection and improved outcomes.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

What Is Good Breast Health?

Good breast health involves being aware of how your breasts normally look and feel and taking steps to monitor any changes. Breasts naturally change throughout life due to hormonal fluctuations, ageing, pregnancy, and menopause. To look after your breasts, become familiar with your body and…

  • Perform regular breast self-checks
  • Participate in routine breast cancer screening
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle
  • Seek medical advice for breast changes

Recognising Breast Cancer Symptoms

Early breast cancer symptoms are not always obvious, which is why awareness is important. If you notice any of the following changes, speak to your GP. Not all breast changes mean cancer, but checking any unusual symptoms promptly can help rule out serious conditions.

Common signs of breast cancer can include:

  • A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
  • Changes in breast shape or size
  • Skin dimpling or puckering
  • Nipple discharge or inversion
  • Persistent breast pain

Breast Cancer Screening

Regular breast cancer screening in Australia is one of the most effective ways to detect cancer early. Screening uses a mammogram, which is a specialised X-ray of the breast that detects changes before symptoms appear.

The Australian Government supports screening through the BreastScreen Australia program. Women aged 50 to 74 are encouraged to have a screening mammogram every two years, although women aged 40 and over can also access screening. Screening services such as BreastScreen Victoria provide free mammograms for eligible Australians.

How to Check Your Breasts

Checking your breasts regularly can help you become familiar with how they normally look and feel. A breast self-check involves looking at your breasts in the mirror for any changes in size, shape, or skin appearance, and gently feeling your breasts and underarm area for lumps, thickening, or unusual tenderness.

While breast self-examinations do not replace regular breast cancer screening, they can help you notice changes between screenings. If you detect anything unusual, it’s important to see your GP for a breast health check.

Guidance on how to check your breasts is available from Breast Cancer Network Australia.

Lifestyle Factors That Support Breast Health

Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can play an important role in supporting breast health and reducing the risk of breast cancer. Simple daily choices related to diet, physical activity, and overall wellbeing can help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural defences. The following can contribute to better breast health:

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Exercise regularly (about 150 minutes per week)
  • Limit or avoid alcohol
  • Eat a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
  • Breastfeed if possible
  • Do not smoke and avoid second-hand smoke
  • Manage stress and get good sleep
  • Have regular breast screenings (mammograms)

Treatments for Breast Cancer

If breast cancer is diagnosed, treatment will depend on the stage and type of cancer as well as individual health factors. Early detection through breast cancer screening or self-examination can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Common breast cancer treatment options include:

  • Surgery to remove cancerous tissue
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy
  • Hormone therapy
  • Targeted therapy

When Should I See My GP?

You should consider seeing a GP if you:

  • Notice a lump or unusual breast change
  • Experience ongoing breast pain
  • Are due for breast cancer screening
  • Have concerns about your breast health

Your GP can assess symptoms, organise imaging tests, and provide guidance on breast cancer prevention and screening.

FAQs

How often should I check my breasts?
It’s helpful to perform a breast self-check regularly — once a month — so you become familiar with normal changes.

Do all breast lumps mean cancer?
No. Many breast lumps are benign, but it’s important to have any new lump assessed by a GP.

Who should have breast screening?
Women aged 50 to 74 are strongly encouraged to have a mammogram every two years through the BreastScreen Australia program.

Can younger women get breast cancer?
Yes, although it is less common. Anyone who notices symptoms should seek medical advice for breast changes.

For trusted information about breast cancer screening and breast health, visit:

Contact Us

If you have concerns about breast cancer symptoms or are due for a breast health check, the team at Nillumbik Medical Centre can help. Booking regular appointments with your GP supports early detection and overall health. Contact us to book a breast health consultation today!

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