Breast Checks
Be Breast Aware with Parkhill Medical Centre
Understanding your breast health is crucial in detecting any changes early and reducing the risk of breast cancer. At Parkhill Medical Centre, we encourage all women to take an active role in their breast health.
The 3 Steps to Being Breast Aware
- Know your breasts: Become familiar with their size, shape, and feel.
- Notice changes: Consult your GP at Parkhill Medical Centre if you observe any unusual changes.
- Routine screening: If you are aged 50–74, schedule a mammogram every two years with BreastScreen Victoria or another approved provider.
Breast Cancer in Australia
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian women, with 1 in 7 women diagnosed during their lifetime. This is why it’s vital to be proactive about reducing your risk.
At Parkhill Medical Centre, we help patients understand their risk factors and recommend the best course of action. For most women, regular mammograms are key to early detection. These can be arranged through BreastScreen Victoria or a radiology clinic with a referral from your GP at Parkhill Medical Centre.
If you have a higher risk of breast cancer due to family history or other factors, earlier or more frequent screenings may be needed. Speak to your GP at Parkhill Medical Centre about your individual risk and screening options.
Find a BreastScreen location near you: https://www.breastscreen.org.au/locations/
Know Your Breasts
Early signs of breast cancer are often subtle and may go unnoticed. The most reliable way to detect changes is by knowing your breasts—understanding how they look and feel.
How to Perform a Breast Self-Check
As the owner of your breasts, you are in the best position to notice any changes. Here’s how you can check:
- Look: Examine your breasts in a mirror under good lighting. Look for visible changes in size, shape, or skin texture.
- Feel: Perform a breast self-examination.
Self-checks are best done in the shower or lying flat. In the shower:
- Use a soapy hand and keep your fingers flat against your chest.
- Move in circular motions, starting from the outer part of your breast and working towards the center.
- Feel for any lumps, tenderness, or unusual areas.
Self-checks help you detect changes like lumps, swelling, or tenderness that may need further investigation.
For more detailed instructions on self-checks, visit https://www.breastcancer.org/screening-testing/breast-self-exam-bse.
When to See Your Doctor at Parkhill Medical Centre
If you notice any changes in your breasts, it’s crucial to see a GP at Parkhill Medical Centre right away. These changes might include:
- A new lump or thickened area.
- Soreness, redness, or swelling.
- Skin changes such as dimpling or puckering.
- Nipple discharge or inversion.
Most breast changes are not cancerous, but early diagnosis is critical for effective treatment and better outcomes.
Why Choose Parkhill Medical Centre?
At Parkhill Medical Centre, our experienced doctors and nurses are here to support you in maintaining your breast health. We can:
- Discuss your risk factors and provide personalised advice.
- Arrange mammogram referrals for routine or urgent screenings.
- Address any concerns about breast health, including changes you may notice.
Take Charge of Your Breast Health
Being breast aware can save your life. Regular self-checks, consultations with your GP at Parkhill Medical Centre, and routine screenings are essential steps in staying proactive about your breast health.
Don’t wait—schedule a consultation with our team at Parkhill Medical Centre today and let us help you take charge of your health.