Canberrans have been urged to prioritise their health by booking a free breast screen with BreastScreen ACT.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and, with today also being Halloween, BreastScreen ACT has teamed up with the Canberra Sexual Health Clinic and Cancer Council ACT to deliver a frighteningly important message – don't ghost your screenings.
BreastScreen ACT, the Canberra Sexual Health Clinic and Cancer Council ACT will be on site at BreastScreen ACT at the City Community Health Centre to talk about the importance of breast and cervical screening.
Health education sessions will run from 1pm, with free walk-in mammograms available from 2pm.
There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions, create fun and spooky bras (peek a boob) and most importantly get your life saving screenings done.
BreastScreen ACT is also celebrating diversity and inclusion in healthcare through the Inclusive Rainbow Threads Project, which supports breast/chest health in the LGBTIQA+ community. First-time screeners who identify as LGBTIQA+ receive a free rainbow scarf, designed by local Ngunnawal and Wiradjuri artist LaToya Kennedy, as a symbol of welcome and inclusion.
The project is supported by the Canberra Hospital Foundation, Canberra Health Services, and generous community donors. Scarves are also available for purchase, with proceeds helping others in the community access screening.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health, Rachel Stephen-Smith:
"Since the breast screen program began more than 30 years ago, deaths from breast cancer have been reduced dramatically. If you're due (or overdue) for your breast screen, don't ghost it - book it in today.
"Regular mammograms help detect cancers when they are small. The earlier a cancer is detected, the better the outcome is likely to be.
"We know that booking your first mammogram can be a bit scary, but it's quick, it's free, and – while it may be a bit uncomfortable – it will be over before you know it."
Quotes attributable to Jodie Kirkness, BreastScreen ACT Quality and Promotions Manager:
"BreastScreen ACT is encouraging women aged 50 to 74 years old to attend a free mammogram.
"Screening is also available for those aged 40-49 and over 74, with no referral needed, just a quick 20-minute appointment that could save your life.
"With breast cancer one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers for women in Australia, it's important that we take control and prioritise our health.
"To book your free mammogram today, call 13 20 50 between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. You can visit the BreastScreen ACT website to check your eligibility."
Website information: No tricks, just checks: Halloween Health Screening Event.
