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Mammogram rates improve, but many women missing out
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Mammogram rates improve, but many women missing out

Regular breast screens are an essential component of women’s well-being for those over the age of 50 and Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull is encouraging more women in the community to take up BreastScreen Victoria’s free program. A total of 4,519 women in the Gippsland East electorate didn’t have a breast screen in the two years to the end of June 2016.
 
“I hope we see this number decrease as more women prioritise their health” said Mr Bull.
 
The latest BreastScreen Victoria participation statistics for women in Gippsland East reveal that 56% aged 50-74 had a mammogram between July 2014 and June 2016. Across the state, the participation rate is 54%.
 
“I’m calling on local women to prioritise a breast screen every two years, along with other important routine health checks.
 
“If you’re not yet in the 50-74 age bracket, perhaps you can support someone you know to have a breast screen. Maybe you can even go with them to their appointment – a breast screen takes just 10 minutes and is with a woman.” said Mr Bull.
 
Seventy-five percent of women diagnosed with breast cancer will be over the age of 50, the vast majority of whom will have no family history of the disease. BreastScreen Victoria targets women aged 50-74 with early detection giving women the best chance of successful treatment and recovery.
 
Appointments at the BreastScreen Victoria clinics at Sale, Bairnsdale, Omeo, Orbost and, Mallacoota can be made online at breastscreen.org.au or by calling 13 20 50.
 
Thursday, November 23, 2017