12 October 2009

Health professionals urge women to have a mammogram

Linda O’Brien from Sans Souci is one of 30 women who discover they have breast cancer every day across Australia.

She was first diagnosed with breast cancer after having a screening mammogram at St George Hospital late last year.

“I had overlooked making an appointment to have a mammogram and received a reminder letter from BreastScreen NSW whilst I was holidaying overseas,” Ms O’Brien said.

“My son received a telephone call from BreastScreen at St George Hospital – which was a further reminder about my overdue appointment.

“He immediately text messaged me and continued reminding me until I made an appointment – I still have the text message saved on my phone,” she said.

Ms O’Brien attended St George Hospital for a screening mammogram and later received a call informing her that she was required to attend the Assessment Clinic for some more tests.

“At the time of receiving the call I was watching the cricket, and it was Jane McGrath Day, how ironic,” Ms O’Brien said.

Further tests revealed that Ms O’Brien had a tumour that required immediate treatment.

Ms O’Brien’s story helps to promote the critical message of early detection in the fight against breast cancer.

Acting Director, BreastScreen at St George Hospital Jill Sternfeld said breast cancer is the most common cancer and most common cause of cancer deaths among females in Australia. The cancer mostly affects women after the age of 40.

“It is important for women aged 50 – 69 years to have two-yearly mammograms,” Ms Sternfeld said.

“Screening mammograms have been shown to be of significant benefit, in terms of deaths prevented, with a 97 per cent five year survival rate for women in this age group.

“The government funded service aims to detect cancer in its early stages, when treatment can be most effective,” she said.

Ms O’Brien said early detection of breast cancer had saved her life.

“I wouldn’t say that being diagnosed with breast cancer has changed my life drastically, in how I behave or interact with people. However, I do make sure I go for a walk every day and make the most of every moment that I have with my family,” she said.

For women in the St George and Sutherland areas, breast screening is performed at St George Hospital, in rooms at Miranda (20-24 Gibbs Street) and at mobile services throughout the area.

To make a booking for a free screening mammogram with BreastScreen NSW, call 132050 or 131450 if you require an interpreter. For more information, visit http://www.bsnsw.org.au.


Media Enquiries: Maxine Brennan, 9113 2601, 0413 028 776