October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and a timely reminder for regular self-checking

Today marks the start of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and serves as a timely reminder to get into the habit of regular self-checking.

Dr Samantha Murton, President of The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners says, "If you have any concerns or notice any unusual changes to your body, booking an appointment with your GP as soon as possible is crucial." In your consultation, the GP will be able to provide a thorough assessment, advice, and support and if necessary, arrange for further testing.

We know that for many people, having these conversations can be overwhelming or uncomfortable so if bringing a friend or whānau member along for support will be helpful, then we encourage you to do so.

"Understanding if there is any history of breast cancer in your family is also another factor to be aware of," says Dr Murton.

Regular mammograms should be scheduled every two years between the ages of 45 and 69. These are free of charge and can be booked by calling BreastScreen Aotearoa on 0800 270 200. Your GP can advise if you are eligible for a mammogram.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women, and the third most common cancer overall, and each day nine New Zealand women are diagnosed with breast cancer.

Of the 3,500 women in New Zealand diagnosed every year, around 370 will be under the age of 45.

Overall, 85 percent of people with breast cancer survive 10 years or more, that rises to 95 percent if detected on a screening mammogram.

Approximately 25 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in New Zealand each year.