The McGrath Foundation

The sad loss of a remarkable person

We share the sorrow and regret of Australia, following the loss of Jane McGrath who passed away on Sunday the 22nd of June 2008.

The legacy of Jane's work and dedication to make a difference, lives on in the McGrath Foundation and the message she advocated to all women; early detection saves lives.  We are deeply moved by the loss of such a remarkable individual and trust that we can keep the importance of her work at the forefront by making every woman aware of the importance of breast examinations.

Together, Intimo Lingerie and The McGrath Foundation would like to encourage you to be ‘breast aware’ by regularly checking your breasts for any changes or lumps.  Early detection saves lives – the sooner you find a change in your breast and see your GP, the better. Take control of your health and use the tips below to find out how you can become ‘breast aware’. For information, please visit www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au or call 1800 183 338.

Examine your breasts regularly

Because breast cancer affects women of all ages, it is important that all women, including young women, examine their breasts monthly to notice any changes in their breasts. 

Self-examination is important because if you’re aware of how your breasts look and feel, you’re more likely to notice a change if it develops. 

In addition to seeing your doctor each year for a breast examination, you should check your breasts regularly. A good time to do this is after the last day of your menstrual cycle or if you do not have periods, the same date each month.  Most women find that their breasts are easier to examine just after their period when any premenstrual pain and lumpiness has settled.

You may check your breasts standing up, for example in the shower, or lying down, for example in bed before going to sleep. Your partner should also be alert to look for any changes in your breasts.

Breast Aware Brochure

The McGrath Foundation have designed an informative brochure on being breast aware.

Click on the following link for a pdf copy of this comprehensive guide. Breast Aware Brochure

How to examine your breasts

You can check your breasts by:

• Looking at the shape and appearance of your breasts and nipples in the mirror with your hands by your sides
• Raising your arms above your head and looking for a change in the shape of the breasts
• Feeling for lumps in the breasts either while lying down or standing
• Feeling for lumps in the nipple area and in the armpits

You should look out for the following changes:

• A lump or lumpiness or even a change in shape or appearance of your breast such a dimpling, redness and appearance of veins
• An area that feels different to the rest of your breast or any pain in your breast
• Any change in the shape or appearance of your nipple, such as your nipple being pulled in or development of a rash
• A discharge from your nipple, particularly if it is bloody

If you find a change in your breast, don’t panic

Most changes in the breast are not related to breast cancer.  However, if you do find a change in your breast or a lump, it is important to visit your GP immediately.  Remember, the sooner you see your GP after finding a change in your breast, the better. Your GP will conduct a clinical breast examination to determine whether you will need further testing.

Be Breast Aware

Take control of your health – you can help protect yourself against breast cancer

For more information

For information, please visit www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au or call 1800 183 338.