Why I’m Asking You to Get Your Boobs Checked
Did you know that I have a scar running from armpit to armpit?
Almost five years ago, I had a double mastectomy. Five years before that, I was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ, usually known as DCIS. I had surgery and radiation.
DCIS means abnormal cells are contained within the milk ducts rather than spreading into the surrounding breast tissue. It isn’t invasive breast cancer, but it can develop into invasive cancer if it isn’t treated. Cancer Australia explains DCIS here.
My second diagnosis came before discharge
Five years after my first treatment, I was due to be discharged. I had my mammogram and was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because I had already received radiation, the treatment recommended for me was a double mastectomy.
I’m not telling you this to frighten you or make you feel sorry for me. I don’t mind empathy, but I certainly don’t want sympathy.
I’m all good. I’m telling you because the mammogram I had before being discharged found another cancer.
Breast cancer affects women and men
I recently saw a sponsored post from Breast Cancer Network Australia stating that 58 Australians were being diagnosed with breast cancer each day. BCNA has since updated its main statistics page. It now reports that an average of 56 Australians are diagnosed each day, based on an estimated 20,336 diagnoses in 2025. That includes approximately 20,129 women and 207 men. You can read BCNA’s current statistics here.
Breast cancer in men is uncommon, but it happens. The most common symptom in men is a painless lump, often behind the nipple, although other breast changes can also require investigation. Cancer Australia has specific information about breast cancer in men.
Screening and symptoms are not the same thing
Routine breast screening is designed for people who do not have symptoms.
In Australia, women aged 50 to 74 are invited to have a free mammogram every two years. Women aged 40 to 49 and those over 74 can also access free screening, although they don’t automatically receive an invitation. You can contact BreastScreen Australia on 13 20 50. Read the Australian Government’s BreastScreen guidance.
If you notice a lump, pain, a change to your breast or nipple, or anything else that concerns you, speak to your doctor rather than waiting for a routine screening appointment. BreastScreen Queensland specifically recommends seeing your doctor before booking routine screening if you have noticed breast changes. BreastScreen Queensland explains what to do before screening.
Men who notice a lump or breast change should also speak to a doctor.
Support doesn’t always require money
If you belong to a footy club, netball club or another community organisation, you might be able to organise a fundraiser or awareness event supporting breast cancer research and services.
Money isn’t the only form of support. A phone call can matter. So can sitting with somebody, helping with something practical or giving them a hug if they welcome one.
Trust me. I know those things make a difference. I welcome hugs, by the way.
Please get checked
This is a serious Pretty Way Walk, but it is an important one.
If you are eligible and due for screening, book your appointment. If you have noticed a change or symptom, make an appointment with your doctor. Please get your boobs checked, and ask the men in your life not to ignore any changes either.
For information and support, BCNA’s Helpline is available on 1800 500 258.
