27 October 2015

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First-of-its-kind report provides picture of breast cancer in young Australian women

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A report released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) for the first time presents information and statistics about breast cancer in young women aged 20–39 years. The report, Breast cancer in young women: Key facts about breast cancer in women in their 20s and 30s, was launched this morning at Cancer Australia’s annual Pink Ribbon Breakfast, in Sydney. ‘In 2015, it is projected that 795 young women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and 65 will die from it, which is an average of 2 diagnoses a day and 1 death a week,’ said AIHW spokesperson Justin Harvey. In 2007–11, women aged 20–39 had an 88% chance of surviving for five years after diagnosis, compared to the 90% survival rate for women aged 40 and over. This is an improvement from 1982–1986, when five-year survival for this age group was 72%. ‘When looking at breast cancer in young women, we see a higher proportion of very large breast cancers (>=50mm) diagnosed (8%) than in older women (6%). Very large breast cancers are associated with lower survival than small breast cancers (<15mm)’ Mr Harvey said. However, even for small breast cancers— which tend to be associated with more treatment options and improved survival—young women

have lower survival (93%) than women aged 40 and over (99%). Cancer Australia CEO Professor Helen Zorbas has welcomed today’s report, saying ‘Although the number of young women diagnosed with breast cancer has increased over time, the incidence rate has remained stable over the past three decades’. ‘These young women are at a life stage in which they are building careers, establishing relationships and planning for a family. Issues such as infertility, early menopause and body image as well as time away from work and family can have a substantial impact, with long term physical, psychological and social effects’. ‘This report informs our understanding of the impact of breast cancer among young women at a national level, and supports our work in improving survival outcomes and addressing psychosocial issues specific to young women.’ The AIHW is a major national agency set up by the Australian Government to provide reliable, regular and relevant information and statistics on Australia’s health and welfare. Cancer Australia was established by the Australian Government to provide national leadership in cancer control, and aims to reduce the impact of cancer, address disparities and improve outcomes for people affected by cancer across the continuum of care.

EVERY DAY TWO WOMEN UNDER 40 ARE DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER. Finding breast cancer early provides the best chance of surviving the disease. You don’t have to be an expert or use a special technique. Take the time to get to know the normal look and feel of your breasts as part of your daily routine, for example, while showering, dressing or looking in the mirror. Knowing what is normal for you will help you to detect any new breast changes. It’s never too early to start being breast aware.

CHANGES TO LOOK FOR INCLUDE: - a new lump or lumpiness, especially if it’s only in one breast - a change in the size or shape of your breast - a change to the nipple, such as crusting, ulcer, redness or inversion - a nipple discharge - a change in the skin of your breast such as redness or dimpling - an unusual pain that doesn’t go away. Most breast changes are not due to cancer – but see your doctor to be sure. ,I \RX ÀQG D EUHDVW FKDQJH WKDW LV QHZ RU XQXVXDO IRU \RX see your GP without delay.

KNOWING YOUR BREASTS COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

canceraustralia.gov.au @CancerAustralia

canceraustralia.gov.au/breastcancer Mornington News 27 October 2015

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