WOMEN across the Grampians are urged to remain breast aware while routine screening for has been suspended in Ballarat due to risks of COVID-19 spreading.
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Grampians BreastScreen, which operates within Ballarat Health Services' Queen Elizabeth Centre, closed in line with the service across the state.
Scroll down for tips for cancer patients amid COVID-19
This does not include separate private diagnostic screenings for patients referred by their general practitioner. Any one who notices a change in breast tissue, unusual to you, is urged to see their doctor.
Women aged 50-plus are encouraged to have a free screening every two years.
In a general statement, BreastScreen Victoria has said while it was unclear how long services would be suspended, the risk for women without symptoms developing breast cancer during this time was low. Most women who attend breast screening receive an all clear.
Ballarat federal MP Catherine King, Western Victoria and Wendouree state MPs Jaala Pulford and Juliana Addison were united in a call earlier this year for more women to be breast aware and ensure they make screening a routine part of their health.
Only 58 per cent of women aged 50-74 had a breast screening within two years, according to BreastScreen Victoria's latest participation survey.
Seventy-five per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over the age of 50, the vast majority of whom have no family history of the disease.
BreastScreen Victoria is working to complete reading and assessments that were underway before the closure.
Suspending services will help free up clinicians and personal protective equipment needed to respond to COVID-19.
Meanwhile, Ballarat Integrated Cancer Centre's Wellness Centre is also closed. Cancer patients within Ballarat Health Services continue to be supported by the oncology team.
Cancer patients undergoing treatment in BRICC are to enter BHS Base Hospital exclusively through the Sturt Street entrance.
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Tips for cancer patients and loved ones to look after themselves during the pandemic
Ballarat's Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute, led by honourary director and oncologist George Kannourakis, encourages cancer patients to stick to specific advice and standard precautions from your health care practitioners to minimise your risk of infection, during and after treatment.
On top of regular Victorian Health Department advice, FECRI and Cancer Council Australia recommends:
- If experiencing coronavirus symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath) or are aware you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus, contact your treatment team via phone where possible.
- Staying at home and social isolating is particularly important for people having chemotherapy or post-treatments, like bone marrow transplants.
- Talk to your doctor or member of your treatment team about the times in your treatment when you may be at the highest risk of infection so you can plan your activities accordingly. There are no shortcuts to boosting the immune system beyond adhering to a healthy lifestyle.
- Find someone to assist you with gathering supplies and order more online to limit visits to the shops.
- If you take prescriptions or over-the-counter medication, make sure you have enough at home or in a safe place that you are able to access. A one-month supply is ideal.
- Family, friends and carers should try to receive the influenza vaccination as early in the flu season as possible.
- More advice on Cancer Cancer website.
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