More than 1000 women in some of the Territory’s most far-flung regions will be screened by the Health Department’s BreastScreenNT bus over the next six months.
The big pink 4x4 bus will travel more than 7000km and visit 14 different locations as it brings this vital service to Territory women living in places like Kalkarindji, Hermannsburg, and Borroloola.
And for the first time the BreastScreenNT bus will be barged to Nguiu on Bathurst Island, where screening will be available to the women of the Tiwi Islands for two weeks.
The Territory’s manager of Cancer Screening Services Kim Coulter said last year 5855 women were screened by BreastScreenNT, with the mobile bus service screening 1264 women.
“Breast screening mammograms are strongly recommended for women aged 50-74 for the early detection of breast cancer.” Ms Coulter said.
“Early detection of breast cancer offers women the best chance of successful treatment and recovery.”
“The biggest risk factors for breast cancer are getting older and being a woman. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. It is important women are aware of how their breasts look and feel and see a doctor if they notice any changes,” Ms Coulter said.
Women 50 to 74 are eligible for a free breast screen every two years with BreastScreenNT.
Breast screening is free, takes less than 30 minutes, and does not require a doctor’s referral.
There are two screening blocks at the BreastScreenNT clinic in Alice Springs this year with the first screenings running from May 3 until the June 10.
BreastScreenNT in Alice Springs has just upgraded to a digital mammography x-ray unit for the first time. The new digital machine will provide a more streamlined service with less waiting time to view the images which allows the women to have a quicker, more efficient service.
To make an appointment at BreastScreenNT clinics in Casuarina, Alice Springs or Palmerston or for more information on the visiting schedule of the BreastScreenNT Mobile 4WD service please email BreastScreenNT.THS@nt.gov.au or call 13 20 50.
Media inquiries: Fred McCue - 0401 119 792
Media spokesperson: Kim Coulter, Manager Cancer Screening Services - 8922 6449