THE BREAST BLOG

9 Good Reasons To Be Sober Curious

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 28 Mar 2021 12:25:15 GMT

"Being sober curious means, literally, to choose to question, or get curious about, every impulse, invitation and expectation to drink, versus mindlessly going along with the dominant drinking culture." - Ruby Warrington, author of Sober Curious: The Blissful Sleep, Greater Focus, Limitless Presence and Deep Connection Awaiting Us All on the Other Side of Alcohol.

Have a read about 9 Good Reasons To Be Sober Curious.

How My Breast Cancer Was Diagnosed

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 24 Jan 2021 06:38:47 GMT

Four celebrated Australians reveal how their breast cancer was diagnosed, and the lessons we can learn from their experiences.

Breast Lump Is The Most Common Sign

Blokes Can Get Breast Cancer Too!

Breast Cancer Can Present With Back Pain

Be Aware Of Mastitis That Doesn't Go Away

The Evidence for Exercise & Breast Cancer Prevention

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 21:00:03 GMT

Here are 3 updates from the latest research on exercise and breast cancer prevention.

How much exercise is enough?

Much more than you think! A study published in The Journal of Clinical Oncology reported 2.5 to 5 hours of moderate activity or 1.25 to 2.5 hours of vigorous activity per week significantly reduced the risk for 7 cancer types: colon, breast, endometrial, kidney, multiple myeloma, liver and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Specifically, there is a 10% lower risk of breast cancer. The Cancer Council guidelines recommend at least 1 hour of moderate activity daily or 30 minutes of vigorous activity daily to reduce your cancer risk.

Matthews CE, Moore SC, Arem H, et al. Amount and Intensity of Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Lower Cancer Risk. J Clin Oncol. 2020 Mar 1;38(7):686-697.

Does it matter when I exercise?

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer found the beneficial effect of physical activity to reduce breast cancer risk was stronger when the activity was regularly done in the morning (8-10 am). It is suggested that the timing of physical activity has different effect on the body’s production of oestrogen. Higher levels of oestrogen are associated with increased breast cancer risk. Physical activity is associated with lower oestrogen levels and the body’s oestrogen production peaks at around 7 am. Physical activity in the morning, rather than evening, might reduce oestrogen levels shortly after the morning peak.

Weitzer J, Castaño-Vinyals G, Aragonés N, et al. Effect of time of day of recreational and household physical activity on prostate and breast cancer risk (MCC-Spain study). Int J Cancer. 2020 Sep 25.

What about if I have had breast cancer?

Exercise is even more important! A study focusing on breast cancer patients, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, found that patients who met the minimum exercise guidelines before and after cancer treatment had a 55% decrease in risk of their cancer returning and a 68% decrease in risk of death. Patients who started exercising only after treatment still had benefits - a 46% decreased chance of recurrence and a 43% decreased chance of dying. A few hours of consistent, weekly exercise result in the same survival benefits as longer periods of weekly activity. The Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) recommends “all people with cancer should avoid inactivity and return to normal daily activities as soon as possible following diagnosis.” COSA guidelines recommended 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity exercise per week, and 2 to 3 resistance exercise sessions per week.

Cannioto RA, Hutson A, Dighe S, et al. Physical activity before, during and after chemotherapy for high-risk breast cancer: relationships with survival. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2020 Apr 2:djaa046.

The Breast Blog | Can Men Get Breast Cancer?

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sat, 07 Nov 2020 10:18:52 GMT

Breast cancer in men is a rare disease, but it is often more advanced at diagnosis compared to breast cancer in women.

Why? Because many men do not realise that “breast cancer can happen to a bloke”. And men can also be notorious “doctor dodgers” who delay acting on symptoms, with a study showing the average time between first symptom and diagnosis in male breast cancer to be 19 months!

A recent study has also shown men are more likely than women to die from breast cancer , especially during the first 5 years of diagnosis.

Here are answers to 5 frequently asked questions about male breast cancer .

1. What are the causes?

The incidence of breast cancer in men increases with age . The average age of diagnosis is 69.

High oestrogen level is another risk factor as breast growth is stimulated by oestrogen. Men can have high oestrogen levels as a result of taking hormonal medicines, being overweight, heavy alcohol use and liver disease.

Men who have been treated with radiotherapy to the chest, usually for lymphoma, also have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

Family history can also increase the risk, especially if other men in the family have had breast cancer. The risk is also higher if there is a proven breast cancer gene abnormality in the family. However, the majority of male breast cancers still occur in men without a family history of breast cancer or an inherited gene abnormality.

2. What are the signs?

The most common sign is a painless lump in the breast close to the nipple. Men have less breast tissue, so a lump is often easier to detect.

Enlargement of both breasts, known as gynaecomastia, is usually not due to cancer.

3. How is it diagnosed?

The triple test is used to investigate breast changes in men. The triple test refers to 3 diagnostic components: medical history and clinical breast examination, imaging with mammogram and ultrasound, and then biopsy if abnormalities are identified.

4. What is the treatment for male breast cancer?

The main surgical treatment for breast cancer in men is mastectomy , which involves removal of the whole breast including the nipple. The lymph nodes in the armpit are usually sampled at the same time. Radiotherapy , chemotherapy , targeted therapy and/or endocrine therapy may also be required.

Men diagnosed with breast cancer should be referred for genetic counselling and testing. Male breast cancer is closely associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. Identifying a gene mutation can influence screening for other cancers (e.g. prostate) and prompt testing of family members.

5. What is the prognosis?

Breast cancer in men can be treated successfully. The majority of men diagnosed and treated for early breast cancer will not die from the disease.

3 Breast Cancer Awareness Lessons From Celebs

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 25 Oct 2020 03:33:18 GMT

There are some important lessons we can learn from Blanche, Kylie and Angelina about being breast aware.

The Link Between What You Eat & Drink ... And Breast Cancer

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sat, 03 Oct 2020 12:15:04 GMT

Here are 3 updates from the latest research.

Fibre

High fibre intake is linked to a reduced incidence of breast cancer, according to a systematic review published in Cancer . Researchers compared fibre consumption and types of fibre intake with breast cancer incidence rates; and found that individuals who consumed the most fibre had an 8% lower risk for premenopausal and postmenopausal breast cancers compared to individuals who consumed the least amount of fibre. Soluble fibre (such as in oats, peas, beans, carrots and barley) and fruit fibre had the strongest associations with reduced risk of breast cancer.

It is recommended that adults consume at least 25-30 g of fibre daily. Here is an example of how daily dietary fibre requirements can be met (Source: Dietitians Australia ).

Farvid MS, Spence ND, Holmes MD, Barnett JB. Fiber consumption and breast cancer incidence: A systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies. Cancer. 2020;126(13):3061-3075.

Coffee

Consumption of caffeinated coffee is not associated with an increased risk of various cancer types, according to a review article published in The New England Journal of Medicine . Rather, coffee consumption is associated with a slightly reduced risk for breast, skin and prostate cancers, as well as a significantly reduced risk for liver and endometrial cancers.

If you enjoy your coffee or tea, you can continue drinking these caffeinated beverages without being too concerned about their potential negative effects on your risk of breast cancer.

van Dam RM, Hu FB, Willett WC. Coffee, Caffeine, and Health. N Engl J Med. 2020;383(4):369-378.

Sugary Drinks

Drinking sugary drinks is linked to a significantly increased risk of cancer, according to a large prospective study published in The BMJ . Researchers investigated the relationship between drinking sugary drinks or artificially sweetened beverages and risk for first cancer in 10,1257 healthy adults. Results showed a 100 ml per day increase in consumption of sugary drinks is associated with a significantly increased risk for overall cancer and breast cancer. Drinking 100% fruit juice had the strongest association with increased risk for overall cancer.

Whilst the study does not prove a direct causal link, the findings support limiting intake of drinks high in added sugars such as soft drinks (Coca Cola 600 mL = 64 g of sugar), cordials, fruit drinks, vitamin waters, energy (V Energy Drink 500 mL = 53 g of sugar) and sports drinks (Gatorade 600 mL = 36 g of sugar). The WHO guidelines recommend adults limit their daily intake of free sugars to less than 10% of their energy intake; which works out to be no more than 55 grams or 13 teaspoons of sugar per day (based on an average adult Australian on a diet of 87000 kJ a day).

Chazelas E, Srour B, Desmetz E, et al. Sugary drink consumption and risk of cancer: results from NutriNet-Santé prospective cohort. BMJ. 2019;366:2408.

How To Be A Screening Superstar

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 06 Sep 2020 09:03:36 GMT

For Women’s Health Week, I am joined by health reporter Jane Worthington and special guests Liesl Tesch MP Paralympian and Member for Gosford and Margaret Beardslee OAM World Age Duathlon Champion in a special podcast to discuss the importance of screening checks for the 2 most common cancers affecting women - breast cancer and bowel cancer.

Breast Health Through Your 50s, 60s and 70s

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 16 Aug 2020 06:44:29 GMT

Our “girls” are with us for the long haul. They are with us as youngsters, as we eagerly await our first training bra. They are an endless source of male fascination in our dating years. They nourish our babies when we nurse and they are fundamentally what makes us well … female.

Which is even more reason why we need to look after them as we age, with the risk of breast cancer increasing with every passing decade. The incidence of breast cancer is increasing too – the current risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer by age 85 is 1 in 7 women, up from 1 in 8 women in 2008 and 1 in 9 women in 1992.

The good news is that survival rates for breast cancer are better than ever. The chance of surviving at least 5 years after a diagnosis of breast cancer has increased from 74 percent in 1986-1990 to 90 percent in 2011-2015. For early breast cancer, the survival rate approaches 100 per cent.

But the bad news is that in 2020, there has been a 37 percent drop in new breast cancer diagnoses due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as fewer women are going to the doctors even when they have breast symptoms . This means in the months ahead we can expect a surge in cancer cases, with more women presenting with advanced and potentially incurable breast cancers.

Undoubtedly, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live. But cancer won’t wait for the pandemic to end. That’s why it is critical to put preventative care back on your to-do list.

Thanks for the mammaries! Our breasts take us from our first training bra, through to childbirth and menopause, so it’s important to look after them.

Learn about the important actions to take for your breast health in your 50s, 60s and 70s.

In Your 50s

When you turn 50, you will receive an invitation from BreastScreen to attend your first screening mammogram . Screening mammograms can pick up cancers as small as a grain of rice, usually 2 to 3 years before a palpable lump develops. Early diagnosis means less invasive treatment, potentially avoiding chemotherapy and mastectomy, as well as improved survival.

Many women start taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) around now, which is linked to a small increased risk of breast cancer, whilst alcohol is linked to 1 in 5 cases of breast cancer. And taking HRT and alcohol together adds an extra layer of risk. Research has shown that women who take HRT and have more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day had a breast cancer risk that was 5 times higher than women who did not drink and did not take HRT. Consider limiting your alcohol intake (to no more than 2 standard drinks per day) and taking HRT for the shortest time possible.

In Your 60s

The average age of breast cancer diagnosis is 62 years old, so do continue with your screening mammograms.

“Remember that mammograms are your friends, not your enemies. You can catch something early or rejoice if nothing is found. Either way, you’re ahead of the game,” Joy , breast cancer survivor, from The Central Coast Breast Cancer Compendium .

Watch the kilo creep, with obesity being associated with a markedly increased risk of hormone receptor positive breast cancer in postmenopausal women. After menopause, active oestrogen in your body comes from the conversion of androgen in fat tissue by the enzyme aromatase. Fat tissue is rich in aromatase, meaning obese women have higher levels of oestrogen. However, it is not all bad news, with recent evidence showing modest weight loss (5% in weight) can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Also, exercise remains important, with evidence showing it can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer and the risk of recurrence in breast cancer survivors. Cancer Council recommends aiming for at least 60 minutes of moderate activity or 30 minutes of vigorous activity every day.

In Your 70s

After the age of 74, BreastScreen stops sending you reminders for screening mammograms – but don’t assume you are past breast cancer! Breast cancer is still the most commonly diagnosed cancer in older Australian women. Recently, Blanche D’Alpuget, the wife of former Prime Minister Bob Hawke, was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 76.

There is no hard-and-fast rule for screening mammograms beyond the age of 74. If you are in good health, you may wish to continue with your free biennial mammograms. Whereas, if you have serious health problems, you may decide breast screening is not a priority as it may pick up slow growing cancers that may never progress to cause symptoms.

Breast awareness is important at any age, but once you have stopped screening mammograms, it becomes your only way to pick up breast cancers. Being breast aware means knowing how your breasts normally look and feel, and noticing new changes. “Saggy breasts” are a common change that occurs with ageing, but if you notice a new lump, a sunken nipple, dimpling or “orange peel” appearance of your breast skin – see your doctor without delay.

Breast Self Exams

Take these 3 moments to check your breasts.

Breast Health Through Your 50s, 60s and 70s was published in Go 55s on 17 Aug 2020.

How To Be Your Own Breast Advocate

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 02 Aug 2020 13:39:38 GMT

Queenslander Bianca Innes became the youngest Australian diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 20. Whilst breast cancer is far less common in young women, there are still over 900 women under the age of 40 who are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in Australia.

Furthermore, the State of Nation report by Breast Cancer Network Australia, which surveyed 15 000 people living with breast cancer, found that women under the age of 40 were more likely to be dismissed by health professionals as ‘too young to have breast cancer’ when presenting with symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis.

Kylie Minogue, diagnosed at age 36 after being given the all-clear just weeks before, has this advice for young women: “Just because someone is in a white coat and using big medical instruments doesn’t necessarily mean they are right...if you have any doubt, go back again”.

Here are 3 ways you can be your own breast advocate.

1. Be Breast Aware

Breast screening with mammograms is not offered to women under the age of 40. Why? Young women tend to have dense breast tissue, making it more difficult to distinguish normal from abnormal breast tissue on a mammogram and therefore limiting its usefulness. The most effective method for early detection in young women is being breast aware, meaning knowing how your breasts normally look and feel and reporting any unusual changes to your doctor.

2. Calculate Your Risk

iPrevent is a free online tool that calculates your lifetime risk for breast cancer based on your family cancer history, lifestyle and reproductive risk factor information. It also provides personalised advice on breast cancer screening and the need for genetic counselling and testing if there are ‘red flags’ in your family history to suggest hereditary breast cancer. Whilst you cannot change some of your risk factors for breast cancer, such as your family history, you can have choices in how to manage your risk.

3. 'Triple Test' Breast Changes

Whilst most breast changes are not due to breast cancer, it is important to use the ‘triple test’ to confirm or exclude a diagnosis of breast cancer. The triple test refers to 3 diagnostic components: medical history and clinical breast examination, imaging with ultrasound and/or mammogram and biopsy. When performed appropriately, the triple test will detect over 99.6% of breast cancers. A triple test negative on all components means that breast cancer can be ruled out with 99% accuracy. An abnormal result (indeterminate, suspicious or malignant) on any component of the triple test requires further investigations.

How do I perform a breast self-exam?

There is no right or wrong way to perform a breast self-exam. It is more important that you check your breasts regularly so that you are familiar with the usual look and feel of your breasts, and can notice unusual changes.

You can use these "everyday moments" to check your breasts.

Did You Know?

Breast cancers in young women are different biologically from breast cancers faced by older women. Young women are more likely to be diagnosed with more aggressive triple-negative breast cancers, have large breast cancers (greater than 5cm) and have poorer survival outcomes.

Debunking the Myths About Your Genes & Breast Cancer

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 07 Jun 2020 12:34:38 GMT

Around 1 in 10 cases of female breast cancer is due to a faulty gene passed through families from one generation to the next.

Here are 5 common myths about hereditary breast cancer.

Myth 1: Breast cancer gene mutations only cause breast cancer.

BRCA1 and BRCA2, which stand for Breast Cancer gene 1 and Breast Cancer gene 2, are the most common genes involved in hereditary breast cancer. A mutation in these genes raises the lifetime risk of breast cancer to as high as 85% but also increases the risk of ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancer. Other gene mutations with strong links to breast cancer (such as TP53 gene in Li-Fraumeni syndrome and CDH1 gene in Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer) are associated with increased risk of endometrial, thyroid, soft tissue, adrenal, brain and gastric tumours. For this reason, it is worthwhile knowing all the cancers that have occurred in the family.

Myth 2: I only need to pay attention to medical history on my mother’s side.

Faulty genes can be passed down from the maternal and paternal side of the family, including the genes involved in hereditary breast cancer. In fact, male breast cancer is much more likely to be associated with genetic mutations than female breast cancer. Therefore, it is important to check both sides of the family history.

Myth 3: I will automatically get breast cancer if I test positive for a mutation.

Having a gene mutation does not guarantee you will develop cancer, but it does significantly increase your risk. Knowing you have a mutation allows you to work with your doctors to develop a personalised plan for screening and prevention.

Myth 4: There is no need to worry about breast cancer if I test negative for a mutation.

9 out of 10 women who develop breast cancer do not have hereditary breast cancer. The biggest risk factors are being a woman and growing older. Therefore, it is important to be breast aware and have biennial screening mammograms from the age of 50, even if there is no family history of breast cancer.

Myth 5: I already have breast cancer, so genetic testing is unnecessary.

Knowing your genetic test result can guide cancer treatment decisions such as the choice of surgery (lumpectomy versus mastectomy) and/or type of chemotherapy. It can also inform you of the risks for other cancers (such as ovarian cancer), and help your family learn about their risks.

A referral to a family cancer clinic for genetic counselling and testing is warranted if you have these ‘red flags’ in your family history.

Two 1st or 2nd degree relatives diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer PLUS
One or more of the following on the same side of the family

Additional relative(s) with breast or ovarian cancer
Breast cancer diagnosed before the age of 50
More than one primary breast cancer in the same woman
Breast & ovarian cancer in the same woman
Jewish ancestry
Breast cancer in a man
Pancreatic or prostate cancer

The Breast Blog | Breast Health During Covid-19

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 03 May 2020 10:34:26 GMT

Stay breast healthy with these 5 tips whilst in self-isolation.

1. Breast self-examinations are not cancelled

Breast screening services may have temporarily ceased, but breast self-examinations are not cancelled! Remain breast aware by checking your breasts on a regular basis, linking it to a daily routine such as having a shower, whilst in bed or getting dressed in front of the mirror. Download the Know Your Lemons app for your virtual breast self-examination coach. If you find new changes, see your GP to have further tests and do not delay until the pandemic is over.

2. Get to know your family’s medical history

1 in 10 cases of breast cancer is linked to faulty genes passed through family. Chances are you are connecting more with your family during this period of lockdown. Take the opportunity to get to know your family’s medical history over the next Zoom family meeting. Red flags in the history to suggest hereditary breast cancer include breast cancer at young age (less than 50), breast and ovarian cancer in the same woman and breast cancer in a male relative. Take note of history from both maternal and paternal sides, as well as other types of cancer (especially ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancer).

3. Calculate your breast cancer risk from your couch

Now that you know your family history, you can complete an online quiz that calculates your breast cancer risk. iPREVENT is a validated risk calculator to help Australian women know their personal breast cancer risk and then take action. It will ask about your family cancer history, lifestyle and reproductive risk factors, and then provide you with a 10 year and residual lifetime risk estimates for breast cancer, as well as personalised lifestyle change suggestions and tailored advice on breast cancer screening.

4. Make those Quarantinis non-alcoholic

It’s not just toilet paper that have been flying off the shelves – alcohol has been selling like crazy too! But the sobering fact is that 1 in 5 of the nation’s breast cancer cases is linked to alcohol intake. No level of drinking is considered safe for avoiding cancer, and excessive drinking can also weaken your immune response. If you choose to drink alcohol, limit your intake to 2 drinks per day. Or why not get creative with non-alcoholic Quarantinis? Visit BBC Good Food Healthy Drink Recipes for ideas.

5. Butt out and avoid the Corona Cough

Smoking is a known risk factor for breast cancer, especially if you started at a young age and before your first pregnancy. Recent studies have also shown smokers have a 14 times higher risk of severe disease and death from COVID-19 compared to non-smokers. Now is the perfect time to quit smoking. Join the iCanQuit community to develop your quit plan, connect with other quitters and work out how much money you can save.

The Breast Blog | Best Breast Cancer Apps

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 08 Mar 2020 12:18:01 GMT

Here are 5 free apps that can help you navigate through your breast cancer diagnosis and treatment and life beyond.

Hairdressers Spot Skin Cancers

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Thu, 06 Feb 2020 11:49:10 GMT

A trip to your hairdresser could help save your life. That’s the message from a local surgeon who recently removed a dangerous skin cancer from a woman, identified by her hairdresser.

Central Coast Breast and General Surgeon, Dr Mary Ling, has praised the efforts of hairdressers and barbers who keep an eye out for questionable moles and spots on their clients and said it was that kind of vigilance that led to the removal of a dangerous basal cell carcinoma from the scalp of her patient, Roslyn Raison.

“I didn’t feel or see anything because I have very thick hair and always wear hats,” said Raison of Macmasters Beach.

“I was very grateful because I don’t think I would have noticed it myself,” she added.

Dr Ling said the Central Coast was one of the worst regions for skin cancers in the state, with hairdressers uniquely positioned to detect them.

The Central Coast is one of the top five skin cancer hotspots in NSW.

Empire Bay’s Fox and Blade barber, Errol Baker, is one such professional who takes it upon himself to tell clients to get spots and moles checked.

“We are not doctors, but hairdressers and barbers are certainly a good first point of call to alert people about changes to spots and moles, as we are often in your hair every six weeks,” Baker said.

“I look for asymmetry (moles that divide in half), changing colours and moles of different colouring, and quite often we also see scabby/crusty spots on top of the ears,” he said.

Baker believes new hairstyle trends, particularly for men, are also contributing to the development of skin cancers on the head, scalp, neck and ears.

“I regularly see a lot of skin cancer, even in younger men, particularly outdoor tradesmen who often do not wear shirts or put sunscreen on exposed areas such as the arms, back of the neck and ears. The new trend for men to have shorter cuts based on styles from the 30s through to 50s doesn’t offer the same protection that say the longer beach styles did,” Baker said.

Hairdressers Spot Skin Cancers was published in Coast Community News on 6 Feb 2020.

Surviving Your First Mammogram

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 09:06:48 GMT

Here are 4 tips on how to handle your first mammogram like a pro.

1. Schedule your mammogram for a week after your period when breasts tend to be least sensitive. Research has also shown breast density is slightly decreased during this week, which can mean mammograms may be more accurate. If you no longer have periods, you can have a mammogram at any time of the month.

2. Don't wear deodorant, talcum powder or creams, as aluminium found in these products can show up as white spots on mammograms and look like cancer. Although you are not applying deodorant directly to your breasts, mammograms include images of your armpit as well. You can always schedule your appointment early in the morning and bring deodorant along to apply after your mammogram.

3. Wear a two-piece outfit, as you will need to undress above the waist for the mammogram.

4. Take an over-the-counter pain killer, such as Paracetamol or Nurofen, 30 minutes before your appointment to reduce pain and sensitivity.

The Breast Blog | The Weight Loss Ripple Effect

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sat, 25 May 2019 14:01:15 GMT

Losing a large amount of weight can seem like a huge hurdle, but did you know you can gain some major health benefits by losing even a relatively small amount?

Have a read on how losing even just 10 per cent of your body weight can radically improve your health and longevity.

What's Your Mammogram Personality?

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sat, 04 May 2019 14:30:48 GMT

Do you get your screening mammogram like a clockwork? Or are you a mammogram dodger? Which personality type can you relate to?

Screening Superstar

Mammogram Procrastinator

Mammogram Dodger

Spontaneous Screener

Research News

A recent analysis, published in the journal Cancer, has found that screening mammogram along with improved breast cancer treatment has averted more than 483 000 deaths from 1990 to 2015. "Recent reviews of mammography screening have focused media attention on some of the risks of mammography screening, such as call-backs for additional imaging and breast biopsies, downplaying the most important aspect of screening - that finding and treating breast cancer early saves women's lives," says lead author Dr Hendrik.

Central Coast Breast Cancer Compendium

mark.ryan@quantumdigital.com.au (Mark Ryan) — Sat, 06 Apr 2019 13:21:48 GMT

The Central Coast Breast Cancer Compendium features stories written by Coastie women about their personal experience with breast cancer. The women have generously shared their stories with the purpose of educating and informing, and offering hope – not just to the one in eight Aussie women who will develop breast cancer but also to family, friends and health care providers.

Margaret Beardslee Interview with Scott Levi

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sat, 09 Mar 2019 13:08:10 GMT

Transcript of Margaret Beardslee OAM interview with Scott Levi on ABC Radio.

Scott: Tell us about what happened to you though. I know you're dodging that a bit, but …

Margaret: I would like to dodge that. But I do want to have a shout out to people … all the ladies on the Coast. I had a regular visit scheduled to the breast bus (mobile BreastScreen van) and I was dodging it, like most of and many ladies out there and sort of gathering a bit of strength … a few girls, a bit of bravado, nah I don’t need it, it's my fourth check-up, my fourth biennial … haven’t had any problems. And a good friend of mine, Beverley Andrews, some reason overheard the conversation, basically stuck a finger in my face and said “You get yourself down there and it doesn't cost anything and what have you got to lose?” So five minutes later, I found that I had to go back for another check-up and at the time it was interesting. I was actually training for a five day, a mountain bike race with 10,000 meters of climbing in East Timor. So it was coming up to my 60th birthday and that was my way of celebrating. Some people think I’m crazy but each to their own …

Scott: My idea of good fun [laughter] …

Margaret: Anyway, I had my check-up and they said “Look, you know, you need to have another biopsy.” And I said “No, I can’t. I'm going to this bike race.” And they said “No. No. You need to have the check-up.” Anyway, I was quite persuasive to them that I had trained, you know, for six months and I had tickets booked and I was going and they said “Well, you get yourself down here the day you get back.” So I got off the plane, I actually (had) heat stroke on the fourth day of the race. And to be honest, that would be the only thing in that entire six months that, that I could say perhaps my body wasn't coping. Other than that, I had no symptoms. You know, this is the, it's just the silent killer. You don't know. You know, I was training, I competed against girls half my age, I probably placed halfway down the field and you know, I felt pretty good except for the day of the heat. And that was …

Scott: Well you were in the tropics and going extreme up mountains. It's a mountainous country.

Margaret: Yeah. And the worst thing is that you're carrying your own water. They are supplying water but there is no respite. If the water is the same temperature as the air, those, you know, even though you're taking it in, you are just constantly hot. Anyway, you know, it was on their medical advice, I would have probably pushed on the next day. But, once you ask them, can you go, they say no, you're sort of against their insurances or whatever. I sat the day out and I did feel a lot better. But anyway, so two days later I got off the plane, went to my biopsy and then found out within the week that I had a lump and they were wanting me to get it out. Basically I got the news on the Wednesday afternoon and saw the surgeon and that was the lovely Mary Ling who started this beautiful Compendium to help support women through their journey. And also sort of just raise awareness, you know, for prevention if possible.

Scott: Tell us about the campaign here on the Central Coast. I believe you've been featured in that, about this Compendium and how you became involved.

Margaret: Mary Ling, one of the breast surgeon on the Coast, I guess, saw a little bit of an opportunity to give support to people. And I think that's the thing when you’re diagnosed that, I mean, it is a very personal thing and you have to assess your own situation and what it might mean. And the unknown is a, it's just a really that, that's probably the worst feature. What am I preparing for? What's going to happen? And, this Compendium … it’s a little bit of a reach out from some beautiful women who have been involved themselves or very close. There's a lovely story about Liesl Tesch and her mom, there’s some other ladies who just have the disease, if that's what you call it, in their family - they know it's there, they carry the gene. And you know you're not alone, you know that there's support. And it just, it's a really, I didn't have this when I got my news, but you've really, I think searching, you just need a little bit of a shoulder to cry on or lean on really, to find out, you know, how you’re going to be able to get through your journey

Scott: And what you did is a good thing. You know, it's really wonderful that you tell you a story about how you wrote 60 kms during chemo on your 60th birthday. And then, an expert doctor, Sharon Czerniec, writes a piece about Breastercise exercise in breast cancer, and goes into how important exercise is in recovery, which I think is great. It's a beautiful little book. How do they get a copy of the Compendium?

Margaret: There's a limited copies around at the moment, but, I believe Blooms Chemist may have some, Brisbane Waters Private Hospital, Liesl Tesch’s office, and you can actually download a pdf file from Dr Mary Ling’s website.

Scott: Yeah, that's what we did actually. We photocopied the pdfs so if people want a copy, come and see us. But it's great that you're part of this, Margaret, because you're such a leader in our community. Sport is such a powerful thing to bring us all together and so many contacts you have through your love of sport and fitness and, and I think it will empower women to, you know, get through this, as you have.

Margaret: Absolutely. I think the important thing is to realise where you're at with your fitness. I mean, obviously everybody can't go out and ride 60 kms, and they don’t even want to. But for me, you know, I was trying to sort of measure where I was at with my fitness and be very sensible. I asked the surgeon, I asked the oncologist, you know, do you think that, this level of activity is okay for me? And, I think, you know, they were all a little bit, you know, they don't really want to push you, it’s about pushing yourself and finding that limit where you're happy. But, one of the pieces of advice from the oncologist was that he didn't think that really the exercise could hurt me. And that was what gave me courage to sort of pursue how I was feeling.

Scott: Well, the mobile BreastScreen van visits locations across the Central Coast on weekdays and some Saturdays. You can make a free appointment. Call 132050 or book online. They certainly picked it up with you Margaret. The van is currently at Lake Haven Shopping Centre until the 17th of May. So that makes it easy for people in that part of the Central Coast to access, the northern part of the Central Coast. Margaret Beardslee thanks for joining us again and …

Margaret: Thank you for having me, and just girls, everybody listening, do not undermine this check, it could save your life.

Scott: Well, you know, you tried to dodge it and thank goodness your mates made you go.

Margaret: Absolutely.

Scott: Good to talk to you Margaret and keep up the good stuff. Any big bike challenges or any big sporting things for you coming up?

Margaret: Oh, there's always the challenge on the horizon. The one this year is Reef to Reef in Port Douglas in August, so doing a little bit of training for that and I'm really looking forward to getting up north and the tropics again.

Scott: Won’t have any trouble warming up there [laughter]

Margaret: Hopefully I won’t get heat stroke out this time.

Scott: Well, you can use a bit of, I guess you could, you know, if it's set up with stations that you put a bit of electrolyte in and stuff can’t you?

Margaret: Absolutely.

Scott: You love it. You love it. Don't you?

Margaret: Can’t get enough.

Scott: Good stuff. Margaret, you're an inspiration. Thanks so much for talking to us.

Margaret: Thanks for having me.

Scott: Thanks for the update on the new track too. That's a really good story, $650,000 worth of lovely new track for our kids to run on. World class. Thanks for your time. Margaret Beardslee there from, well athletics as we know it, but, now a big ambassador for breast cancer on the Central Coast.

Breast Cancers Survivors Urge Others to Get a Mammogram

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 24 Feb 2019 08:18:18 GMT

Women from The Central Coast Breast Cancer Compendium share an important message on NBN News.

Click on the image for link to video.

What Celebs Can Teach Us About Skin Cancer

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 06 Jan 2019 10:09:46 GMT

What do celebs Lisa Wilkinson, Hugh Jackman, Diane Keaton and Shannan Ponton have in common? Skin cancer!

Have a read of their advice on being Sun Safe in Woman's Day.

5 Things Celebs Have Taught Us About Breast Cancer

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sun, 02 Dec 2018 09:53:58 GMT

Celebs Kylie, Olivia, Angelina, Sheryl and Christina share their advice on breast cancer in Woman's Day.

Bowel Cancer Tests: Why You Should Do Them

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 07:57:11 GMT

When people turn 50 some celebrate the occasion with cold one for the old one.

Others lament the extra wrinkles in the mirror and many will laugh off the strange little package they received in the mail, asking them to send a small sample of their stool off for medical testing, as part of the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program.

While some are delighted for the opportunity to send the government a personalised stool (bottoms up!), new research shows that 40% of Australians are abandoning the Faecal Occult Blood Test, leaving it languishing in the bathroom cabinet.

Why is this so scary?

Because this easy, accessible, three-minute bowel cancer testing is still the best tool we have to prevent Australia’s second biggest cancer killer.

And here on the Central Coast the figures are particularly alarming – with some areas such as Wyong notching up a whopping 44 per cent above the state average for colorectal cancer.

Younger people are not immune either.

Bowel cancer is now the most common cause of death in people (25-29), all fuelled by the global obesity pandemic.

The latest US study of 500,000 people last year found that Gen Xers and Millennials were in fact more at risk than even baby boomers.

Those born in 1990 are at twice the risk of bowel cancer and four times the risk of rectal cancer than those born in 1950.

As a nation we need to look at how we can improve death rates in something that is so preventable.

Bowel Cancer Australia can reveal that newly released medical guidelines have seen colonoscopy wait times for patients blow out by a massive 300 per cent – from the previous 30 days to 120 days.

Research shows diagnostic intervals exceeding 120 days are associated with poorer outcomes, yet 90 per cent of National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) participants with a positive screen are waiting between 116-181 days.

That’s why I am a big supporter of Bowel Cancer Australia’s recent push for no patient to wait longer than 30 days for a diagnostic colonoscopy – should they present with bowel cancer suggestive symptoms such as rectal bleeding that last longer than two weeks, or who receive a positive test result.

We also need to ensure that those who truly need it get access to the public system in a timely way; while privately insured patients proactively use the private system if a diagnostic colonoscopy is required, rather than waiting until it’s too late.

Certainly, for anyone aged 50-74, it’s a good idea to do the bowel screening test, which from next year will be offered every two years.

As individuals we need to start changing the way we discuss bowel cancer too.

If we can pooper-scoop our dog’s droppings, surely we can poke a stick in our own and send it off for testing?

Women almost always action a breast lump which is often benign – but far fewer women (or men) do anything about rectal bleeding because they think it’s just “another” haemorrhoid or it’s too plain unpleasant or embarrassing to discuss.

The good news is that if bowel cancer is detected earlier, more than 90 per cent of it is treatable.

So that’s why we just have to get on with it – because dying of embarrassment on the Central Coast is still a lot better than dying of bowel cancer.

Bowel Cancer Tests: Why You Should Do Them was published in The Express Advocate on 30 November 2018.

The Sobering Facts About Christmas Drinking

maryslling@gmail.com (Mary Ling) — Sat, 03 Nov 2018 08:07:28 GMT

'Tis the season to be jolly, but too much drinking in the silly season - or even wine o'clock during our working week - is a contributing factor for breast cancer that many women may be underestimating.

The evidence is solid, with a recent Cancer Council Australia report stating that 1 in 5 of the nation's breast cancer cases is now linked to alcohol consumption. "A lot of effort goes into raising breast cancer awareness, but how many Australian women are aware that reducing alcohol consumption is one of the best ways to reduce their breast cancer risk?" says former Cancer Council Australia CEO Professor Ian Ovler.

Alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer through two main ways.

Alcohol is broken down by the body into a toxic chemical called acetaldehyde, which can damage DNA in cells and stop cells from repairing that damage, leading to cancerous cells developing.

Alcohol increases the levels of oestrogen in the body, which is linked to the development of breast cancer.

Aside from breast cancer, alcohol is also linked to cancers of the mouth, pharynx (upper throat), larynx (voice box), oesophagus, bowel and liver. There is no level of drinking, or types of alcohol, that is considered safe for avoiding cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) recommends no more than 2 standard drinks a day.

10 Holiday Hacks to Reduce Christmas Drinking

Set a goal. Plan to stop drinking at a certain point in the night or aim to only have alcohol on the weekend.

Eat first. Have a healthy meal with carbohydrate content before going out, as food slows down the absorption of alcohol.

Try alternatives such as mocktails or non-alcoholic beer, wine or champagne. Visit www.alcofree.com.au for a range of non-alcoholic drinks.

Lighten up alcohol content by adding orange juice to champagne (Mimosa) or lemonade to beer (Shandy). Your waistline will thank you too.

Alternate with water. Keep hydrated with water to stop yourself from getting too intoxicated, and reduce hangover symptoms.

Sip soda from a wine glass, so you don't feel like you are missing out.

Stop the top-ups. Drink your glass empty first.

Know your "strength". There are 8 standard drinks in a bottle of red wine, 1.5 standard drinks in a restaurant pour of red wine and 1 standard drink in a stubby (mid-strength beer).

Downsize glasses at home. Opt for a small (125 ml) wine glass rather than a large (250 ml) glass.

Learn to de-stress - no wine required. Alcohol doesn't have to be the glue that "binds" social relationsh ps. Opt for group sports, mindfulness, yoga, a walk in the park, or a nightly "ritual" with candles and herbal tea instead of alcohol.

Remember, at the end of the day, it's always important to take more out of alcohol than alcohol takes out of you.

The Breast Blog | Be Dense Aware

Sat, 06 Oct 2018 16:00:00 GMT

"Breast density" is the new buzzword in breast cancer screening. Dense breasts are common and normal. It is estimated that up to 50% of women in Australia between the ages of 40 and 74 have dense breasts - that's over two million Australian women.

What is breast density?

Breast density does not refer to the "perkiness" or "sag" of your breasts, but rather how they look on a mammogram. Breasts are made up of fatty, fibrous and glandular tissues. Each woman has different amounts of these 3 types of tissue. Women with low breast density have more fatty tissue compared to glandular and fibrous tissue, while women with high breast density have more glandular and fibrous tissue compared to fatty tissue. Breasts tend to become more fatty (and less dense) as you get older, especially after menopause.

Why does breast density matter?

Dense breasts is a risk factor for breast cancer. Research has shown women with dense breasts have a 4 to 5 times increased risk of breast cancer compared to women with low breast density. The reason for this is currently not clear. It is important to keep in mind that the risk of developing breast cancer is influenced by a range of other factors such as increasing age (biggest risk factor), being overweight and drinking alcohol.

Dense breasts can mask cancer on mammograms. Breast cancer can be more difficult to detect on standard 2D mammograms (the most common screening method) in women with dense breasts. Dense tissue appears white on a mammogram, as do cancers. The white-on-white image makes cancer more difficult to detect.

If I have dense breasts, what should I do?

The best way to deal with the increased risks associated with dense breasts is not to try to reduce your breast density but talk to your doctor about a personalised screening program, which may include 3D mammogram, ultrasound or MRI.

The Breast Blog | The Power of Words

Sat, 01 Sep 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women and we all know someone who has had it. When it comes to talking to friends and loved ones about breast cancer, we can never underestimate the power of words.

Here are a few tips on what NOT to say and what to ASK your friend with breast cancer.

1. Asking about treatment

Questions about treatment are often asked with good intentions, but this can be intrusive and put pressure on your friend to open up. Comments that make assumptions can also put stress on your friend when things may not be going so well. Let your friend lead the conversation by asking milder questions.

Don’t Say

"How is chemo going?” “Is it working?” “Are you going to be all right?”

“You look so well so things must be going OK”

Do Say

“How are you?” “How’s things?”

“Do you want to talk about the treatment?”

2. Sharing the news

Don’t assume your friend wants everyone to know. Once you have disclosed HER news it cannot be undone. Some women are intensely private and want to disclose their own news, whereas others prefer friends to spread the news. Be respectful of your friend’s wishes.

Don’t Say

“Leslie has Stage III breast cancer, I just thought you should know.”

Do Say

“Leslie, would you like me to tell anyone on your behalf? What would you like me to tell them?”

3. Offering help

Small acts of kindness are usually appreciated, but large ones can be a burden. The most important thing is not to force help onto your friend – allow her to agree or politely decline the offer. It is sometimes difficult for the person with breast cancer to ask people to do things, such as accompany her to treatment in case the friend is not comfortable with it. It is helpful to make it clear about what you are most comfortable doing.

D on’t Say

“I made this for you. Please eat it because you’ve lost weight lately.”

Do Say

"May I help by taking you to hospital if you ever need it? I’m available Tuesdays or Thursdays.”

“I’m happy to make meals for you occasionally and can make something your whole family would like when I’m making my own meals.”

4. Suggesting alternative treatments

Y ou may have heard about the latest wonder food, supplement or alternative therapy to benefit breast cancer. These suggestions can be a daily occurrence for the person with breast cancer who may feel stressed about trying or not trying options; not to mention cost issues. Some natural supplements, such as Echinacea and St John’s Wort, can also interfere with drugs controlling the cancer or add to side-effects. It’s best to leave treatment decisions to your friend and her medical team.

Do n’t Say

“Have you tried such X? I hear it’s really good for breast cancer?”

Do Say

“Would you like me to find out about yoga sessions at the local gym? If you are interested maybe we could go together.”

5. Comparing other cancer experiences

No cancers are exactly alike, and no two patients respond to treatment the same way. However, all patients experience uncertainty. While breast cancer survival outcomes are very good these days, your friend may not know if she is in this fortunate majority so hearing lots of stories about others’ positive experiences can be overwhelming.

Don’t Say

“My aunt had the same cancer. She’s fine now and I’m sure you will be.”

Do Say

“I have heard that everyone’s breast cancer treatment is very different. I am thinking of you and wishing you the best.”

Sometimes silence isn’t silent at all and often the best consolatio n is holding a hand when required, listening and offering advice only when asked and without necessarily providing a “solution”. As the old adage goes, our mouths often get us into trouble, but our ears never do.

The Big Fat Link Between Obesity & Breast Cancer

Tue, 21 Aug 2018 05:53:36 GMT

For the first time in history, there are now more people with obesity in the world than underweight people. The tidal wave of obesity shows no signs of slowing down – a 2016 global analysis in The Lancet found that worldwide, the number of obese people has risen from 105 million in 1975 to 641 million in 2014.

While many of us now know that obesity increases the risk of diabetes and heart disease, we are less aware that obesity increases the risk of 12 cancers, according to the World Cancer Research Fund. This includes breast cancer, the most common cancer in Australian women, according to the Cancer Council.

“There is mounting evidence that obesity is associated with a higher risk of developing breast cancer, especially in postmenopausal women, and that once diagnosed, breast cancer outcomes are poorer for women with obesity of all ages,” said Central Coast Breast Cancer Surgeon Dr Mary Ling

Breast cancers can be broadly classified as hormone receptor-positive or hormone receptor-negative. Hormone receptive-positive breast cancers test positive for oestrogen and/or progesterone receptors and account for two-thirds of all breast cancers.

The effect of obesity on the risk of breast cancer is different for premenopausal and postmenopausal women. “Obesity is associated with a markedly higher risk of ER-positive (oestrogen receptor positive) breast cancer in postmenopausal women,” said Dr Ling.

“However, a recent large study has found the opposite is true for premenopausal women, where obesity is associated with a lower risk of ER-positive breast cancer. This is not a reason to try to gain weight to prevent breast cancer. It just means the pathway to developing breast cancer is different in younger women compared to older women, and more research is needed to understand this.”

Once diagnosed with breast cancer though, the effect of obesity on breast cancer outcomes is independent of menopausal status. “Studies have shown that obesity along with decreased physical activity and weight gain are associated with poorer survival in patients with breast cancer at any age."

“In contrast, exercise and weight loss are associated with reduced breast cancer risks and better [treatment] outcomes,” said Dr Ling.

The link between exercise and improved cancer outcomes is so strong that the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) recently released a position statement stating exercise should be prescribed as an essential component of cancer treatment.

“Soon we may also see incorporation of weight loss intervention as standard part of management for patients with breast cancer,” said Dr Ling.

The Big Fat Link Between Obesity & Breast Cancer was published in Newcastle Herald on 21 August 2018.

We Will Survive ... Turn the Beat Around for Women's Cancers

Sat, 04 Aug 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Gloria Gaynor, pink sequins and glitterballs will be out in force next month, when 300 cancer survivors and supporters don their boogie shoes at the Coast’s biggest cancer event of the year to raise funds for all women cancer.

Here are the red flags and screening checks for the 3 most common cancers in women - that should not be ignored.

1. Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Australian women, affecting 1 in 8 women in their lifetime. Early stage breast cancer has a 5-year survival of 99%, compared to 25% in late stage breast cancer.

Be Screened: Women aged between 50 and 74 years are eligible for a free mammogram every 2 years. A mammogram can pick up cancers as small as a grain of rice and screening appointments take 20 minutes (think express pedi). BreastScreen NSW has a centre in Erina and mobile vans in Woy Woy (until 24 August) and Bateau Bay (until 12 October).

Be Aware: The most common symptom is a new lump or mass. Other symptoms include change in size or shape of your breast, dimpling (orange peel appearance), nipple discharge and nipple retraction.

2. Bowel Cancer

Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer in Australia and 1 in 16 women will be diagnosed with it in their lifetime. 90% of bowel cancer cases can be treated successfully if found early.

Be Screened: Women (and men) aged between 50 and 74 years are encouraged to do a faecal occult blood test (FOBT) every 2 years. FOBT can detect tiny amounts of blood (invisible to the naked eye) in bowel movements. The test can be performed at home and involves "doing a poo and poking it with a little stick".

Be Aware: Rectal bleeding is the main symptom. Other symptoms include a persistent change in bowel habit, abdominal pain and/or bloating and unexplained weight loss.

3. Melanoma

Melanoma is the third most common cancer in Australia and the leading cause of cancer death in young Australians. Alarmingly, the Central Coast has been identified as one of the top five NSW Melanoma Hotspots by Cancer Institute NSW. 1 in 24 women will be diagnosed with melanoma some time in their life. 90% of melanomas detected and treated early are cured.

Be Screened: High risk individuals (including peopl e with fair skin, family history and high mole count) should be taught to check their skin regularly and have annual professional skin checks.

Be Aware: The first sign is usually the appearance of a new mole or change in the size, shape, colour or texture of an existing mole. Remember melanoma can hide in sneaky places too – so don't forget to

Ask someone to check your scalp using a hairdryer on cool to separate hair

Inspect all areas of your feet including the soles, underneath the toenails and between the toes

Go polish free at your next skin check so your fingernails and toenails can be examined

The Breast Blog | Be Your Own Breast Friend

Sat, 02 Jun 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australian women. The cause of breast cancer is unknown, and many risk factors are beyond our control, such as being female and getting older. But current research has shown that women can, to some extent, lower their breast cancer risk with lifestyle changes.

Here are 5 breast healthy habits.

Habit 1: Exercise regularly.

Exercise decreases your risk of breast cancer, inactivity increases it. Cancer Council Australia recommends at least 60 minutes of moderate activity or 30 minutes of vigorous activity every day. Moderate physical activity includes any activity in which you can still hold a conversation, such as brisk walking. Vigorous physical activity includes any activity that makes you "huff and puff" such as swimming, cycling or jogging. Just remember any activity is better than none.

Habit 2: Maintain a healthy weight.

Being overweight or obese, defined as having a body mass index over 25, increases your risk of developing breast cancer after menopause. Obese postmenopausal women are also more likely to have bigger tumours and nodal involvement. Latest research has also shown obesity in children and young adults have shifted multiple cancers to the younger age group. The increasing incidence of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), familial breast cancer associated with BRCA gene mutation and triple negative breast cancer in young adults are linked to obesity.

Habit 3: Limit alcohol to 1 standard drink per day or eliminate completely.

One standard drink of alcohol per day increases your risk of developing breast cancer by as much as 10%. Two drinks and you double your risk to 20%. Ultimately no level of alcohol use is safe when it comes to breast cancer, but if you are going to drink less is still better than more.

Habit 4: Quit smoking.

Smoking is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer, especially if you started smoking at a young age and before your first pregnancy.

Habit 5: Breastfeed your babies (if possible).

Breastfeeding for 12 months or more is associated with long-lasting protection from breast cancer. You have heard ‘breast is best for babies’, but it is best for mums too.

The Breast Blog | Busting The Mammogram Myths

Sun, 04 Mar 2018 00:22:43 GMT

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian women - yet alarming statistics show that more than 25,000 Central Coast women have not participated in the National Breast Cancer Screening Program in the past 2 years.

On the Central Coast, around 275 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and 50 die from the disease. The Woy Woy peninsula has the highest rate of breast cancer (18% above NSW state average) followed by the suburbs of Gosford, Springfield and East Gosford.

Here are the 5 most common mammogram myths stopping women from breast screening.

Myth 1: Mammograms expose you to a dangerous amount of radiation.

Fact: Screening mammograms use very small doses of radiation, about the same as 24 weeks of natural background radiation from sources such as the sun, rock, soil and air. The risk of developing cancer from this level of radiation exposure is very low (estimated to be 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 100,000), compared with the lifetime risk of breast cancer (1 in 8 women).

Myth 2: I don't have any family history, therefore I don't need to be screened.

Fact: 9 out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history. Breast cancers occur for many reasons, none of which is fully understood. Family history is just one of the risk factors, along with age, obesity and alcohol consumption.

Myth 3: I don't have any symptoms, therefore I don't need a mammogram.

Fact: Screening mammograms are for women with no current breast symptoms. It can pick up cancers as small as a grain of rice, usually 2 to 3 years before a palpable lump develops.

Myth 4: It will take all day.

Fact: Most screening appointments only take 20 to 30 minutes, with the actual mammogram taking only a few minutes. That is the same time as cooking a simple meal or having an express facial treatment.

Myth 5: Treatment is so good, I won't die from it anyway.

Fact: While breast cancer treatment has improved significantly over recent years, early diagnosis still leads to less invasive treatment and a greater chance of survival. Early stage breast cancer is less likely to require a mastectomy or chemotherapy. Early stage breast cancer has a 5-year survival of 99%, compared to late stage breast cancer which has a 5-year survival of 25%.

Are you making excuses to put off your mammogram? Breast cancer is not yet preventable, and early detection remains your best protection. Mammograms are free for all women aged 50-74 through BreastScreen. Contact 13 20 50 to book your screening mammogram today.