National Breast Cancer Day
The AMA today called for greater priority to be placed on preventative action in the early detection of breast cancer.
On National Breast Cancer Day, AMA President, Dr Kerryn Phelps, said raising community awareness through events like Pink Ribbon Day is crucial in informing women of all ages to check regularly for signs of the disease.
"Breast cancer is a major health issue with one in 11 women at risk of developing breast cancer before the age of 75 - but there is no simple set of rules with breast cancer," Dr Phelps said.
"Young women who contract the disease, without a family history of cancer, are often more difficult to diagnose. These patients are generally considered to be a higher 'at risk' group in recovery from breast cancer than older women. But perhaps the most traumatised patients are those that find that they have a recurrence of the disease some time after treatment," Dr Phelps said.
The AMA endorses the following preventative program for breast cancer:
- Regular self-examination - Women should consult a GP about changes including a lump, lumpiness or thickening, if unrelated to the normal monthly cycle; persistent unusual pain; and change in shape or size of the breast. Women over the age of 50 are currently recommended two-yearly mammography screenings.
- Diet - It is particularly important for post-menopausal women to maintain a well-balanced diet, including fresh fruits, vegetables and grains, calcium and lean meat.
"Exercise may reduce the risk of breast cancer and plays a key role in both the mental and physical recovery process of a patient who has undergone breast cancer surgery in assisting flexibility and strength, rebuilding muscular fitness, and encouraging the patients general wellbeing. Activities may include walking, or gentle floor and pool based exercises.
"Patients are encouraged to develop an exercise program in consultation with a GP who can work in partnership to extend more personal care to the patient, with consideration to the medication or treatment they may have received.
"A GP plays a key role alongside the patient's specialists in providing evidence-based information about the patient's treatment and chances for long-term survival following diagnosis.
"The AMA applauds the National Breast Cancer Centre's efforts in promoting 'A guide for women with Metastatic breast cancer'," Dr Phelps said.
The AMA acknowledges the committed efforts by the National Breast Cancer Centre (NBCC) and the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) for research into breast cancer.
For further information, visit the websites - www.nbcc.org.au and www.nbcf.org.au.
CONTACT: Sarah Crichton (02) 6270 5472 / (0419) 440 076