Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Territorians urged to learn more about disease

IT’S an illness that affects one in seven women by the age of 85, including survivor Cathy Clarke, who thought she was “going to die.” Now Territorians are being urged to learn the warning signs

TERRITORY women are being urged to learn about prevention, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, a condition one in seven will get by age 85.

October marks the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, as doctors and health experts urge people to get breast checks.

MORE TOP NEWS

City of Darwin launches food van locator

Top End at higher risk of cyclones this Wet, weather bureau warns

Islamic group wins bid to establish ‘place of worship’ in Winnellie after appeal to NTCAT

“Women and men can be diagnosed with breast cancer. Anybody can,” McGrath Breast Care nurse Noelle O’Reilly said. “The sooner you see your GP after finding a change in your breast, the better.”

Among Territorians who have survived the illness is Darwin woman Cathy Clarke, who was diagnosed in March 2018.

Darwin woman and breast cancer survivor Cathy Clarke was diagnosed in March 2018 after finding a lump in her breast. Picture: Top End Health Service.

Ms Clarke underwent three surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation treatment to battle the deadly disease.

“Everything was going through my head, I thought I was going to die,” she said.

Ms Clarke, who was treated at the Alan Walker Cancer Care Centre, said she beaten the illness and life was returning to normal.

“I am feeling good and am back at full-time work so I keep myself busy and don’t think about my breast cancer,” she said.

OFFER EXTENDED: Subscribe to the NT News for just $1

Ms Clarke said McGrath Cancer Care nurses were “wonderful people” and she continued to receive their support.

Women are urged to check their breasts monthly, making sure to:

1. Look at the shape and appearance of your breasts

2. Feel all of your breasts and nipples

3. Learn what’s normal for you