If in doubt, check it out: a personal reflection on breast health
Life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. For me, that surprise came in 2024 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a diagnosis I never saw coming. I’d always considered myself healthy. I believed I was doing everything right—I was only 45, had breastfed my son, and had no family history of cancer. In my mind, breast cancer wasn’t something I needed to worry about. But as I soon learned, cancer doesn’t always follow the rules, and breast cancer can affect anyone—regardless of age or family history.
While I was fortunate enough to catch my cancer early, it still led to chemotherapy and a long road ahead. I’m not out of the woods yet. In fact, I won’t know for certain that I’m in the clear until five years have passed. But one thing I do know for sure is that the experience taught me the power of self-awareness and the importance of listening to my body. It also reinforced how crucial early detection is—something I wouldn’t have known without the BreastScreen Aotearoa screening programme.
Breast cancer: a reality for women of all ages
Breast cancer is the most common cancer for women in New Zealand, affecting one in nine women over their lifetime. It’s the third most common cancer overall, and while most diagnoses occur in women aged 50 and older, with 70-75% of diagnoses in this age group, it can strike younger women too. In fact, 6% of breast cancer diagnoses in New Zealand happen in women under 40 (Breast Cancer Foundation NZ). This may be surprising, but it’s an important reminder: breast cancer doesn’t discriminate.
While the screening programme in New Zealand starts at age 45, it’s crucial to understand that breast cancer can still develop in younger women. I didn’t think I was at risk. But I was wrong. And it’s why early detection is key—the earlier you notice a change, the better the chances of successful treatment.
The importance of self-exams: why it’s crucial to take action
In my case, I didn’t notice anything immediately alarming. It wasn’t until I felt something unusual and received my screening letter in the mail that I took action. Had it not been for that letter, it’s hard to say how much longer I would have gone without realising something was wrong.
For a long time, I believed in the myths. I thought, “I’m too young,” “I’ve breastfed my son,” “I’m healthy,” and “There’s no family history of cancer.” These were the things I told myself. But none of them turned out to be true. I feel incredibly lucky that my breast cancer was caught early, and I’m deeply grateful for the support I received throughout the screening and treatment process. From the mammogram that confirmed my diagnosis to the care I received during surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, I truly believe the screening programme saved my life. Without it, things could have been a very different story.
A road ahead: staying vigilant and hopeful
Now, as I navigate life after my diagnosis, I want to share something I’ve learned: it’s never too early to start being proactive about your breast health. The earlier you catch it, the better the outcomes. Even if you don’t have a family history of cancer, it’s still important to perform regular breast self-exams and take note of any changes.
Here’s how you can perform a simple breast self-exam:
Look for Changes: Stand in front of a mirror and inspect your breasts for any changes in shape, size, or appearance. Raise your arms above your head and look closely for any differences.
Feel for Lumps: Using your fingers, gently feel your entire breast area, including your underarm, for any lumps or thickening. You can do this standing, sitting, or lying down—whichever is most comfortable.
Check Regularly: Make it a habit to check yourself at least once a month. It doesn’t take long, and it could make all the difference in catching something early.
When to see your doctor
If you feel something unusual, or if you’re simply not sure, don’t hesitate to see your doctor. In my case, I’m so grateful I didn’t wait. Early detection was crucial in my treatment plan, and I’m lucky to be in a place where I can keep fighting.
Some things to watch out for include:
a lump in the breast or underarm
changes in size, shape, or appearance
skin changes (like redness or dimpling)
unexplained pain or tenderness
unusual discharge from the nipple.
Don’t wait. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and get it checked out.
Take action, share your story
Checking your breasts regularly could save your life. If you’re already in the habit of checking yourself, perhaps you could share your experience with a friend or loved one who might need the reminder. If you haven’t yet, it’s not too late to start today. It’s about being proactive, not paranoid—small steps can make a big difference.
I’ll be looking out for opportunities to raise awareness during Pink Ribbon Breakfasts in May and Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. If you’d like to join in, I’d love for you to support the cause in whatever way feels comfortable for you. Together, we can help each other stay informed and empowered about our health.
For more visit Breast Cancer Foundation NZ