WOMEN of the Southern Downs will be able to get free breast health checks when the BreastScreen digital mobile service arrives in Warwick on 28 September.
Local women aged over 40 are encouraged to take advantage of the free services and be proactive when it comes to fighting breast cancer.
The state-of-the-art digital mobile service will be located at Warwick Hospital from 28 September to 8 January, 2016, with only 30 minutes needed for a free breast screen.
Health Promotion Officer at Breast Screen Queensland Toowoomba Shenaed Bliss said the accessibly of the service was a great opportunity.
“The mobile service visits selected rural locations every two years and is always very well received,” Ms Bliss said.
“This is a great opportunity to book in for that first breast screen that you’ve been meaning to have, or to come back for a regular two-yearly screen.
“A Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service mobile women’s health nurse will also be providing free cervical screening on selected days during this time, so phone 4660 3841 for more details.
“We know that early detection of women’s cancers provides the best chance of survival and quality of life, so if you haven’t been keeping up-to-date with these important checks, now’s the time to do so.”
Ms Bliss said the current recommendation for women aged over 40 should have a breast screen every two years and women 18 years and over should have a pap smear every two years.
“In 2015, more than 15,000 Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and around 850 with cervical cancer,” she said.
“One in eight Queensland women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and of those 90 per cent will have no family history of the illness.”
“That’s why we encourage all women aged 40 and over to have a free breast screen every two years, and also be sure to carry out regular breast checks.
“If you find something unusual, of have any concerns about your breast health, see your GP as soon as possible.”
Women aged over 40 who want to book appointment can call 132050 to book a free breast screen with the mobile service. A doctor’s referral is not required.
