Early Detection

Why find breast or ovarian cancer early?

Finding breast/ovarian cancer early means that you have more treatment options and your chances of survival are better. Survival is lower if the cancer has already spread outside the breast/ovary when it is diagnosed.

As an example, about 9 out of 10 women whose cancer is diagnosed before it has spread outside the breast will be alive 5 years later. However, if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body at diagnosis, only about 2 out of 10 women will be alive 5 years later.

Breast Awareness

It’s important that you are aware of the normal look and feel of your breasts. Getting to know what is normal for you will help you recognise new or unusual breast changes. If you do notice any new or unusual changes in your breast see your doctor as soon as possible.

Breast awareness means looking at your breasts and feeling them regularly, maybe while you’re showering or dressing. This should only take a few minutes. You don’t have to use any special method or do it at any particular time of the month (although some women prefer to do it after their menstrual period when their breasts are less lumpy and less tender).  The "Cheeky Checkup" is a good method particulary for younger women.

It is recommended that women of all ages, and regardless of whether they attend mammographic screening, are aware of how their breasts normally look and feel and report any new or unusual changes promptly to their general practitioner. No one method for women to use when checking their breasts is recommended over another.

Changes to look for include:

• a new lump or lumpiness especially if it is in one breast
• a nipple discharge
• a change in the size or shape of the breast or nipple
• a change in the skin over the breast such as redness or dimpling
• an unusual persistent pain, especially if it is one breast.

Should your doctor be checking your breasts?

There is no clear evidence to encourage or discourage women from having their breasts examined regularly by their doctor. You might benefit from having your breasts checked regularly by your doctor, particularly if you are unsure about what is ‘normal’ for you. Talk to your doctor and make a decision based on your own preference and situation.