Get Behind Pink Ribbon Day 2014

Today is Pink Ribbon Day, a national campaign organised by the Cancer Council to raise awareness and funds for breast and gynaecological cancers.

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer affecting Australian women. About 14,500 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.

In Tasmania approximately 350 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year.

The Cancer Council does fantastic work around Australia to raise awareness and money to tackle cancer and I would encourage all Tasmanians to support Pink Ribbon Day in whatever way they can.
The month of October is also National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

We know that earlier detection improves survival rates and treatment outcomes.

Breast screening mammograms can detect up to 90 percent of breast cancers, and for most women in the eligible age group, having a free mammogram every two years is the best way to detect breast cancer early.

BreastScreen Tasmania provides free breast screening mammograms every two years to eligible women.

Women aged 50 to 74 years are particularly encouraged to participate in the BreastScreen Tasmania service, however all women over 40 years are eligible to be screened.

Participation in the BreastScreen Program, earlier diagnosis and better treatments have all contributed to improved survival rates from breast cancer in recent years.

BreastScreen Tasmania operates clinics in Hobart and Launceston and a mobile screening unit that visits rural and regional centres. A doctor’s referral is not needed.

To make an appointment with BreastScreen Tasmania call 13 20 50.
Jacquie Petrusma, Minister for Women