BSWRICS Breast Cancer Service Directory
Being told you have cancer can be a difficult experience. This tool has been prepared to help you find services that may be helpful to you and your family during your experience with cancer.
We cannot give you advice about the best services to use. You need to discuss this with your doctors. However, we hope this information will help you know more about what is available for you in the Barwon South Western region.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the abnormal growth of the cells lining the breast ducts or lobules. These abnormal cells have the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Most breast cancers are found when they are invasive. This means the cancer has spread from the breast ducts or lobules into the surrounding breast tissue. Invasive breast cancer can be early, locally advanced or advanced (metastatic).
Breast cancer is diagnosed following a range of tests, which may include a mammogram, ultrasound, biopsy, blood tests, chest x-ray and/or MRI. It will also include your GP and/or specialist taking a full medical history of you and your family, and conducting a physical examination of your breasts, as well as the lymph nodes under your arms, and above your collarbone. Once you have consulted with your GP, you may wish to click on the titles below to find the locations of specialists and services that may assist in the diagnosis of breast cancer.
For information about the services that can assist with your diagnosis please view our Breast Cancer Directory – Diagnosis (PDF).
Treatment for breast cancer may cause side effects. The severity and duration of side effects varies from person to person. Fortunately there are many ways to reduce or manage side effects. In the first instance, it is important to discuss side effects with your treating team who will be able to provide the best advice on management.
For information about the services that can assist with managing your side effects please view our Breast Cancer Directory – Managing Side Effects (PDF).
Cancer may cause you, and your family, to face a number of challenges and experience a range of emotions. It is important to access support if or when you need it.
For information about the services that can assist with support please view our Breast Cancer Directory – Seeking Support (PDF).
There are different options for managing and treating breast cancer. Your treating doctors will advise you of your options.
For information about the services that can assist with treatment please view our Breast Cancer Directory – Treatment (PDF).
