Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day 💗
Today, on Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day, we're sharing the voices of people living with metastatic breast cancer. 💗 Last year, through the Together We Count initiative and our partnership with the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, Australia achieved a significant milestone: For the first time ever, we had a reliable estimate of the number of people living with metastatic breast cancer. But our work cannot stop there. While Australia can now estimate how many people are living with MBC, our cancer data systems still do not routinely identify or track people living with metastatic disease. This means it's harder to ensure the right care, support, services and research reach those who need them most. Here at Breast Cancer Network Australia, we're advocating for a future where people living with metastatic breast cancer are counted, heard and supported. Because no life should be limited by breast cancer. 💪Share Your Voice: Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness
About this week This week, we're creating space for people affected by metastatic breast cancer to share stories that often go unheard. We want to help more people understand the realities of living with metastatic breast cancer by hearing directly from those with lived experience. Your voice can help challenge misconceptions, raise awareness, and educate others about what metastatic breast cancer really means. What we'd love from you Please record a short video answering the following question: "What's one thing you wish everybody understood about metastatic breast cancer?" There are no right or wrong answers. We encourage you to speak from your own experience and share whatever feels important to you. A few tips Keep it conversational and authentic. Speak as though you're talking to a friend. Short responses are absolutely fine. Feel free to share anything else you'd like people to understand about metastatic breast cancer. After answering, please answer for a 2nd time keeping your response to 10 seconds MAX.. Please submit all videos by October 3rd Optional prompt If you'd like, you can also tell us: "Is there anything else you wish people knew about living with metastatic breast cancer?" Thank you for helping us share these important stories! Please submit your videos here: Metastatic Breast Cancer DayHow well do you know your breasts? 👀🩷
Taking a few minutes each month to know yourself and feel yourself can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, making it easier to notice any changes that may need attention. 🔍 When checking your breasts, look and feel for changes such as: A new lump or thickening • Changes in breast size or shape • Dimpling, puckering, or skin changes • Nipple changes or discharge • Persistent pain in one area of the breast or underarm Remember, many breast changes are not cancer, but it's always important to discuss any new or unusual changes with your GP. 💡 There is no "perfect" way to self-check. Some people do it in the shower, while getting dressed, or when applying moisturiser. The key is finding a routine that works for you. For those who have had breast cancer treatment, self-checking can feel different. Surgery, radiation, reconstruction, and ongoing treatments may change how your breasts and chest area feel. Getting to know your new normal is just as important, and your healthcare team can help guide you on what to look out for. 🌸 Click here to watch Breast Cancer Network Australia's educational video to learn how to self check, or follow the steps below; 👇 Do you have a regular reminder or routine that helps you stay breast aware? Share your tips with our community. 💕🌱Wednesday Wellness - How well do you know your breasts? - 30Sep26 👀🩷
Wellness isn't always about adding something new to your routine. Sometimes, it's about taking a moment to pause, connect with your body, and listen to what it's telling you. 💗 This week, we're focusing on breast awareness. Taking a few minutes each month to know yourself and feel yourself can help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, making it easier to notice any changes that may need attention. 🔍 When checking your breasts, look and feel for changes such as: • A new lump or thickening • Changes in breast size or shape • Dimpling, puckering, or skin changes • Nipple changes or discharge • Persistent pain in one area of the breast or underarm Remember, many breast changes are not cancer, but it's always important to discuss any new or unusual changes with your GP. 💡 There is no "perfect" way to self-check. Some people do it in the shower, while getting dressed, or when applying moisturiser. The key is finding a routine that works for you. For those who have had breast cancer treatment, self-checking can feel different. Surgery, radiation, reconstruction, and ongoing treatments may change how your breasts and chest area feel. Getting to know your new normal is just as important, and your healthcare team can help guide you on what to look out for. 🌸 As part of your wellness journey this Wednesday, take a few moments to check in with yourself. A small habit today could make a big difference tomorrow. Click here to watch Breast Cancer Network Australia's educational video to learn how to self check, or follow the steps below; 👇 Do you have a regular reminder or routine that helps you stay breast aware? Share your tips with our community. 💕🚨Early detection saves lives - Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. 💗
It's been almost a year since we launched one of our most important breast cancer awareness campaigns; Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. Most of us spend time in front of the mirror every day. We check our hair, our clothes, or whether there's something in our teeth before heading out the door. But how often do we give the same attention to our breasts? BCNA's Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. campaign is built around a simple but powerful message: know what's normal for you, so you're more likely to notice when something changes. 🌸 There's No "Normal" Breast Breasts come in all shapes, sizes and textures. Some people have naturally lumpy breasts. Others may have one breast that's larger than the other. Some have inverted nipples. For many, these differences are completely normal. 💕 That's why breast awareness isn't about comparing yourself to someone else. It's about becoming familiar with your own body and understanding what's normal for you. Why Breast Awareness Matters Many people know about breast screening and mammograms, but breast awareness is something you can practise at any age and at any stage of life. Regular self-checks help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel. If something changes, you're more likely to notice it and seek advice from your healthcare professional. 🌿 Changes to be aware of can include: 🔹 A new lump or thickening 🔹 Changes in breast size or shape 🔹 Dimpling or puckering of the skin 🔹 Redness, crusting or unusual skin changes 🔹 A nipple that suddenly turns inward 🔹 Swelling or unusual pain If you notice something that is unusual for you, it's important to make an appointment with your healthcare professional. Building Breast Checks Into Your Routine Breast awareness starts with something simple: getting to know your own body. 💗 Know yourself. Feel yourself. Know your normal. For more information and to watch BCNA's breast self-check video, visit the Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. campaign page on the BCNA website here: https://www.bcna.org.au/know-yourself-feel-yourself"Early detection saved my life" ❤️
When Nicole was diagnosed with breast cancer, it came as a particular shock. She was fit, healthy, active, and regularly checked her breasts. Despite having no obvious risk factors, Nicole noticed a change and trusted her instincts. Acting quickly led her to seek medical advice, which ultimately resulted in her diagnosis. By sharing her story, Nicole hopes to encourage others to become familiar with how their breasts normally look and feel. 'Knowing your normal' can help you notice changes early and seek advice from a health professional as soon as possible. 👉 Read Nicole's story and learn more about the importance of breast awareness ❤️ Learn how to complete a breast self-check here 👀 Have you ever noticed a change through self-checking or breast awareness? Call our Helpline on 1800 500 258 to receive support - we are here to help 📞💛🖤❤️NAIDOC WEEK: Sun, 5 July 2026 – Sun, 12 July 2026
NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate, recognise and honour the strength, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 💪 This NAIDOC Week, we invite you to revisit insights shared by BCNA Board Member and proud Aboriginal woman, Jacinta Elston, as she reflects on her experiences from the 2024 Think Tank discussions on cancer care for First Peoples. Drawing on her own breast cancer experience, Jacinta speaks about the importance of culturally safe care, listening to First Peoples' voices, and strengthening the approaches we know are making a positive difference for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by breast cancer. As we celebrate this year's NAIDOC Week theme, we also acknowledge the ongoing work needed to ensure equitable and accessible cancer care for all First Peoples communities. 👉For information and support for First Peoples, visit our website: https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/articles/information-for-first-peoples 📞Or contact the BCNA Helpline on 1800 500 258, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm.💡 Early detection & awareness - access BreastScreen services in your state
Regular breast screening is an important part of regular health screening and 'knowing your normal'. Knowing where and how to access BreastScreen in your region makes it easier to look after your breast health with regular screening. Use the links below to access BreastScreen in your area, services are available to people over 40 years: 🌸 BreastScreen VIC - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen NSW - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen QLD - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen SA - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen ACT - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen WA - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen TAS - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen NT - Find A Screening Location Those under 40 years looking for support from BreastScreen please click here and visit your GP if you notice any unusual changes #KnowYourselfFeelYourself For those who are already diagnosed and completed treatment, there are specific resources available for follow-up screening, please read here for more information.🩺 Early detection & awareness - access BreastScreen services in your state
Regular breast screening is an important part of regular health screening and 'knowing your normal'. Knowing where and how to access BreastScreen in your region makes it easier to look after your breast health with regular screening. Use the links below to access BreastScreen in your area, services are available to people over 40 years: 🌸 BreastScreen VIC - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen NSW - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen QLD - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen SA - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen ACT - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen WA - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen TAS - Find A Screening Location 🌸 BreastScreen NT - Find A Screening Location Those under 40 years looking for support from BreastScreen please click here and visit your GP if you notice any unusual changes #KnowYourselfFeelYourself For those who are already diagnosed and completed treatment, there are specific resources available for follow-up screening, please read here for more information.🌸 Behind the screen with BreastScreen Victoria🌸
BreastScreen Victoria has recently shared several updates highlighting current awareness work across the breast cancer screening sector including: ✨ Launching Behind the Screen, a six‑part podcast offering a closer look at breast screening and the people behind the program. ✨A new permanent clinic also opened in Caroline Springs, improving local access to screening. ✨ They are also continuing the AI image‑reading trial, now active across one clinic in each of the state’s eight regions. Over 7,500 clients have taken part so far, with a statewide rollout planned by June 2026. BreastScreen Victoria will also appear at the Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show from 25–29 March, offering attendees the chance to learn more about breast health and book screening appointments. Thank you to BreastScreen for helping increase impact of awareness for breast cancer ❤️
