For years a breast cancer diagnosis was associated with an eventual death – but that’s no longer the case provided patients are diagnosed early.

Dr Nishat Parvin and Dr Rasika Rampatige from Mount Gambier’s Dr Try Medical Clinic are urging women – and men – to get any ‘unusual’ changes to their breast area checked.

During national Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the doctors are encouraging people, particularly women, to get to know what feels normal within their bodies and breasts.

Dr Parvin said while people believed breast cancer predominantly affected women over 50, younger women – and men – were not immune.

“We encourage women to get tested at any time if there is anything that they notice that is unusual,” she said.

“Breasts come in different shapes and sizes, there’s nothing unusual about that, but it’s important to see your doctor if you feel that something is not right.”

Dr Rampatige said women over 50 could access free mammograms, however women aged over 40 could access the scheme if they had concerns.

“Women should be assured if we can detect breast cancer early, and it is stage one, it is 100% curable,” she said.

“Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers, but there is a good screening program.

“We are encouraging people to be self-aware and to speak with their doctor with any concerns.

Dr Parvin reiterated that a visit to the doctor could save a patient’s life.

“From my perspective, some women get it done too late, they don’t want to go to the doctor,” she said.

“It is normal thing to have looked at, there is nothing to be ashamed about.

“We need to remember it can also affect men, there is nothing to be ashamed of with that either and they don’t need to feel shy.

“It is particularly important for people to get checked if they have a family history of breast cancer.

“We recommend that people should regularly check for your breasts over the age of 40 for men and women.”

Contact Dr Try Medical Clinic on 8723 9586 for more information.