According to new data by Cancer Council Queensland, women living in regional and remote areas experience longer delays in the diagnoses of breast cancer than those living in major cities.
Women living in geographically isolated areas, as well as areas of disadvantage and Indigenous women in Queensland, were most likely to experience a delay in symptomatic and mammography diagnosis.
Cancer Council Queensland CEO Jeff Dunn AO said there were a range of reasons for the inequity – from patient and system-related delays to diagnostic intervals.
“The most common reason Queensland women delayed seeking medical consultation was a lack of awareness of breast cancer symptoms,” Mr Dunn said.
“Our research also found women in full-time employment were more likely to experience system-related delays – it’s possible work commitments may hinder making, and keeping, medical appointments.
“Geographic location and area-level disadvantage led to delays of more than 30 days from first medical consultation to a diagnosis of breast cancer.
“Compared to women in major cities, those living in outer regional and areas of disadvantage were 40 to 60 per cent more likely to experience delays.”
Mr Dunn said improving GP access to regional and rural diagnostic services, as well as timely access to relevant diagnostic procedures, would help close the gap between rural and urban breast cancer patients.
“The research reinforces the urgent need for approaches targeting women most at risk of delays in diagnoses,” he said.
“Investment in translational research activity is key to addressing this issue, ensuring that these findings are used to inform local-level strategies to minimise avoidable delays, so that all women, irrespective of where they live, are diagnosed as quickly as possible.”
Cancer Council Queensland recommended women, aged 50 to 70, have a mammogram every to years.
“All Queensland women should be breast aware and familiarise themselves with the normal look and feel of their breasts,” Mr Dunn said.
“All women should also see a doctor immediately if they notice any unusual breast changes.”
Breast changes women should look out for include persistent lumps, lumpiness or thickening and changes to the nipple, discharge from the nipple; a change to the shape, feel, size or colour of the breast; dimpling or puckering of the skin, and unusual breast pain which is not associated with a monthly menstrual cycle.
For more information, visit the Cancer Council Queensland website on cancerqld.org.au.
