Central Coast women urged not to delay mammograms

HEALTH authorities reveal startling figures showing Central Coast women are falling behind in regular mammograms.

Narara mum Sharon Dawes put off having a mammogram for four years before discovering she had stage one breast cancer. Pictured with her husband Bernie Dawes.

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More than 25,000 Coast women have not participated in the national breast cancer screening program in the last two years, according to figures released by the Central Coast Local Health Authority.

The message from the medical fraternity is simple — have regular mammograms.

Around 275 women across the region are diagnosed with breast cancer each year and around 50 die.

Health authorities urge women aged 50 — 74 years to be vigilant with their regular mammograms during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in NSW, with one in eight being diagnosed in their lifetime.

Women aged 50 — 74 should have a mammogram every two years.

Director from BreastScreen NSW Northern Sydney and Central Coast Local Health District’s

Meredith Kay said with early detection and advances in treatment, breast cancer was not a death sentence.

“We know that detecting breast cancer early means women have better treatment options, and ultimately a better outcome,” she said.

“The best way for women aged 50-74 to detect cancer early is to have a mammogram every two years.”

Around 275 women across the Coast are diagnosed with breast cancer each year

Sharon Dawes, 52, was recently diagnosed with breast cancer after putting off her mammogram.

“I kept thinking to myself, ‘I’ll get around to it, I had one not that long ago and it was clear, I’ll be all right for a bit longer,” she said. “It turned out I hadn’t booked in for a mammogram in four years and the new test picked up a 1.2cm lump.”

Further tests revealed Mrs Dawes had an additional lump and a biopsy confirmed stage one breast cancer. She has since undergone surgery and radiation treatment finishing soon.

“I’m the perfect example of what not to do — I hope women can learn from my experience,”

Mrs Dawes said.

“We are all busy and have lots going on in our lives, but it’s time to stop the excuses.

“We all think we’re invincible and that cancer can’t happen to us. Unfortunately I learnt the

hard way and now know this is very far from the truth.”

Call 13 20 50, or visit breastscreen.nsw.gov.au to book.