Women across Logan are being encouraged to stay on top of their breast health during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, with free screening services available in the local area.
BreastScreen Queensland Health Promotion Officer Sarah Jesser said the month is an important opportunity to remind people to be breast aware and keep up with regular screening.
“Breast cancer is highly treatable when found in its earliest stages,” she said.
For most women, regular breast screening is recommended every two years between the ages of 50 and 74, when screening is most effective.
Women in their 40s and those aged 75 and over are also eligible for a free breast screen.
“There are different risks and benefits of breast screening for different age groups. Women in these age groups should talk to their doctor to find out if breast screening is the right for them.”
For anyone who has never had a mammogram, the process can seem daunting.
A breast screen uses an X-ray machine to look for cancers that cannot be seen or felt by a woman or her doctor.
During the appointment, each breast is placed onto the screening machine one at a time and pressed onto a plate so clear X-ray images can be taken.
“This may be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful. If it hurts, people can ask for the breast screen to be stopped,” Ms Jesser said.
At least two images of each breast are taken, with the results generally provided within four weeks.
Regular screening is only one part of looking after breast health.
People are encouraged to be aware of the normal look and feel of their breasts or chest and speak with their doctor if they notice any new or unusual changes, even if they are having regular breast screens.
Changes to look out for can include a new lump or lumpiness, changes in breast size or shape, nipple changes or unexplained discharge, skin changes such as redness or dimpling, or unusual pain that does not go away.
“Self-examinations should not replace regular breast screening,” Ms Jesser said.
BreastScreen Queensland has more than 260 locations across Queensland, including permanent services at Logan and Browns Plains.
A mobile screening service also visits Eagleby each year, usually around May and June.
People can find their nearest screening location through BreastScreen Queensland and eligible people can book appointment by calling or booking online.
With early detection helping identify breast cancers before they may be noticed by a woman or her doctor, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder for locals to make their breast health a priority.
“Our BreastScreen Queensland (BSQ) mobile unit is at Rotary Park, Jimboomba, providing free breast screening to eligible clients until 29 October 2026.
“We will then move to the Beaudesert Hospital and screen until 7 December. North Tamborine is the first stop for 2027. We’re taking appointments now.”
Subscribe to stay up-to-date with news from across Logan. You’ll receive a link to our digital newspaper direct to your inbox each week. It’s free.
