Free cancer screenings for women 40 years and over with BreastScreen WA visiting Bridgetown next month

A free screening mammogram service is passing though the South West with its next stop planned for Bridgetown. BreastScreen WA’s mobile clinic is in Manjimup until October 20 at the Indoor Sports Pavilion and will be moving to Bridgetown from October 21 to December 5 at the Bridgetown Public Library. The mobile clinic comes through the region every two years, offering screenings to detect breast cancer — the most common life threatening cancer for women. With one in seven women in Australia expected to develop breast cancer in their lifetime, having a screening mammogram every two years significantly increases the chance of survival and reduces the treatment required. More than 75 per cent of breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50 and research shows screening is most effective for this age group. BreastScreen WA’s director Dr Emmeline Lee said screening mammography was the most effective method for early detection of breast cancer. “Screening every two years is vitally important to increase the chance of a breast cancer being detected when it is too small to feel or be noticed,” she said. “Finding a cancer at this early stage often means that the breast cancer is small and more treatable.” “A free screening mammogram is one of the best things that women can do to look after their health. Breast screening saves lives and only takes 20 minutes.” Community members can book their free screening mammogram appointment online at www.breastscreen.health.wa.gov.au or by calling 13 20 50.