Free breast screen service In Mossman and Port Douglas
HEALTH
Women of the Douglas Shire can get free breast screens with BreastScreen Queensland Cairns Service in the region until early June.
Their Mobile Service is currently located at Mossman Hospital until 21 May, before heading to a new site at the Port Douglas Community Hall on Mowbray Street on 25 May.
Ms Sandra Peut, Health Promotion Officer at the Service, said that this was the first time that their new Mobile truck Desert Rose was visiting the area.
“The $1 million truck provides access to the latest breast cancer screening digital technology, meaning that women in the Douglas Shire benefit from this state-of-the-art free Service when it visits the region every two years.
“Regular two-yearly screening at BreastScreen Queensland offers peace of mind, and our dedicated female staff will set your mind at ease and answer any questions you may have.”
One in seven women in Australia will develop breast cancer at some stage in their life. A breast screen is the best way to find breast cancer in its earliest stages for better health outcomes.
“A breast screen can detect small abnormal changes, often before they can be seen or felt by a woman or her doctor,” Ms Peut said.
“Early detection can save your life, providing the best chance of effective treatment, increased survival, and improved quality of life.”
Women aged between 50 and 74 are strongly recommended to have a breast screen every two years, as 75% of breast cancer diagnoses are in this age group. Women in their 40s and those aged over 75 are also eligible for the free service every two years.
Appointments can be made by phoning 13 20 50 or online at www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au.