Why Early Detection of Breast Cancer Matters

Breast cancer is a significant health concern that affects many individuals across the country, with approximately 57 Australians diagnosed each day according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Knowing important information about breast cancer helps us find it early, get the right treatment, and support those affected. It is crucial to stay informed and spread awareness to reduce the impact of breast cancer on individuals and communities.

Because of the consequences that breast cancer can have, educating yourself about breast cancer is critical for finding and treating it early because it is a serious illness that affects many.

Breast Imaging Services

Available at all SCR clinics.

Team of Professionals

Highly trained specialists in Women’s Health.

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At South Coast Radiology, our practices accept all referrals from GPs and medical specialists.

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What are the warning signs of breast cancer?

Knowing what to look for in checking your breasts for cancer matters. Therefore, you should be aware of the following:

Lumps or Masses: A new mass, or lump, can be felt in your breast during self-examination.

Shape changes: Watch for any changes in breast shape, as well as swelling or dimpling.

Skin Changes: Unusual skin changes on the nipple or breast, including Redness or scaliness.

Nipple Changes: Any shifts in the position of the nipple, including inversion or discharge.

Pain: Most breast cancers do not cause pain. However, you should get checked if you experience any unexplained breast or nipple pain as this can still be a warning sign.

If you notice any of these warning signs, it is recommended that you book an appointment with your doctor. Should further assessment be required, your doctor will refer you to a medical imaging clinic such as South Coast Radiology, which may perform medical imaging using several diagnostic imaging modalities.

How can a radiology clinic help detect breast cancer?

At South Coast Radiology, our specialist radiologists and technicians use industry-leading medical imaging equipment to identify and detect breast abnormalities at our clinics. Our procedures used in the detection of breast abnormalities include the following:

MAMMOGRAPHY

MRI

ULTRASOUND

BIOPSIES

Mammograms

Mammograms are X-ray images of the breast that have the ability to detect even the tiniest changes in breast tissue. Women over 40 should get regular mammograms. If a family has a history of breast cancer, they may need earlier or more regular screening. Additionally, South Coast Radiology’s specialist Women’s Imaging Centre in Southport also provides Contrast Enhanced Mammography services.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI uses a magnetic field to create comprehensive images of the breast tissue. It does not use radiation or x-rays like a mammogram does.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound allows for imaging in real time and helps diagnose symptoms. Our doctors often perform it alongside a mammogram to acquire more information on a breast abnormality. For example, it can help in the diagnosis of cysts. It is also a useful tool for performing a biopsy.

Biopsies

Should any abnormalities that require further investigation appear on your diagnostic images, our team of specialist interventional radiologists are able to perform breast biopsies. We work with your primary care doctor and have a pathologist on site to analyse the sample collected.

How can early detection of breast cancer help?

Finding breast cancer early can make a world of difference to a patient’s treatment and prognosis. Here are some reasons why that is the case:

Better Treatment Options: Discovering breast cancer at an early stage often means gentler, more effective treatments.

More Choices: Early-stage breast cancer provides a range of treatment options tailored to your unique needs.

Higher Survival Rates: Catching it early significantly boosts the chances of successful treatment.

Less Invasive Interventions: Early detection can lead to less aggressive surgeries and better preservation of natural breast tissue.

Myths about breast cancer

There are several myths and misinformation that is spread about breast cancer. Some of these are:

Myth 1: Only women can get breast cancer.

Breast cancer can also occur in men, although it is a much less common occurrence than in women. Nonetheless, men should know the signs of breast cancer and see a doctor if they notice anything unusual.

Myth 2: Only older women are at risk of breast cancer.

Younger women can also develop the disease, though the risk increases with age. All women of all ages should be aware of their breast health, routinely examine themselves and get screened.

Myth 3: Breast cancer is always hereditary.

Not all breast cancer is hereditary. Several other risk factors including age, hormonal factors, and lifestyle choices can also contribute to the development of breast cancer.

Breast cancer is a significant health concern that affects many individuals. Knowing important information about breast cancer helps us find it early, get the right treatment, and support those affected. It is crucial to stay informed and spread awareness to reduce the impact of breast cancer on individuals and communities.

Support and Resources for Breast Cancer Patients

A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally and physically challenging. It is important for individuals to seek support from loved ones, support groups, and healthcare professionals.

See below some helpful links to learn more about Breast Cancer:

At South Coast Radiology, we aim to support Gold Coasters through the identification, detection, and diagnosis of breast cancer at our clinics across the Gold Coast. We provide breast imaging services across our 17 clinics, while also operating a specialist Women’s Imaging Centre.

If you require any further information in regard to our breast imaging services or have a referral from your doctor and wish to book an appointment for any breast imaging services, please contact our Bookings Centre on 1300 197 297.

Access to a Team of Professionals

Our practices across the Gold Coast including our Women’s Imaging Centre are staffed by subspecialised radiologists who have obtained training in a wide variety of medical imaging modalities. These include Nuclear Medicine, Cardiac, Musculoskeletal, Breast, Prostate, Neurological, Paediatrics, Body, Head and neck imaging and Interventional radiology procedures.

From X-rays to CT scans and MRIs, South Coast Radiology has access to a team of highly trained subspecialised radiologists who will provide accurate and timely results to help patients and their healthcare providers make informed decisions about their health.

Complete the form below to schedule an appointment.

Request an Appointment

If you are looking to obtain high quality medical imaging, please get in contact with South Coast Radiology by filling in the form below.

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Imaging Services available at South Coast Radiology

At South Coast Radiology, we host a variety of world class medical imaging services at our clinics across the Gold Coast.

Why Early Detection of Breast Cancer Matters

Breast cancer is a significant health concern that affects many individuals across the country, with approximately 57 Australians diagnosed each day according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

At South Coast Radiology, our practices accept all referrals from GPs and medical specialists.

What are the warning signs of breast cancer?

How can a radiology clinic help detect breast cancer?

Mammograms

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Ultrasound

Biopsies

How can early detection of breast cancer help?

Myths about breast cancer

Myth 1: Only women can get breast cancer.

Myth 2: Only older women are at risk of breast cancer.

Myth 3: Breast cancer is always hereditary.

Support and Resources for Breast Cancer Patients

Access to a Team of Professionals

Request an Appointment

Imaging Services available at South Coast Radiology

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