PUT YOUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING FIRST DURING BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Luke Howarth MP, Federal Member for Petrie, is reminding all women in the electorate that early detection remains the best chance of survival.
It is important women of all ages self-check their breasts, with women aged 50 to 74 years asked to attend a free session by BreastScreen Australia.
Speaking at the Cancer Council’s Relay for Life in Redcliffe on the weekend, Mr Howarth urged women in Petrie to learn about breast cancer and have regular breast checks.
“Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Australian women, excluding non-melanoma skin cancer,” said Mr Howarth.
“Many women in the eligible age group have yet to participate in the free screening program so I strongly encourage these women in Petrie to use the next two weeks to schedule an appointment, which could end up saving their lives.
“There are clinics in Kippa-Ring and North Lakes so call 13 20 50 and put your health and well-being first.
“In addition, we’ve sponsored Know Your Knockers, a locally-based organisation who have developed a pocket guide containing information for all women affected by breast cancer on products such as mastectomy bras, fitness and personal training, oncology massage, alternative therapies, wigs and hair care.”
The Morrison Government is strongly committed to reducing the toll of cancer on Australians. We are increasing our support to women to help them to reduce their risks and to survive breast cancer, including:
- From 1 November, breast cancer scans and PET scans for advanced breast cancer will both be subsidised by Medicare, saving patients up to $1,500 per scan.
- The number of McGrath Foundation breast cancer nurses will increase from 57 to 98 by 2022-23.
- The listing of Ibrance® (palbociclib) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, saving women with an advanced form of breast cancer around $55,000 for a year’s treatment.
