Understanding breast cancer and the importance of early detection

Breast Cancer Awareness Month (1–31 October) is an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer, promote early detection and support individuals affected by breast cancer. 

More than 21,000 people in Australia are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. On average, that adds up to almost 60 people each day.

While the number of women and men being diagnosed with breast cancer in Australia is increasing, the mortality rate associated with the disease is decreasing.

Although Australia has one of the best breast cancer survival rates in the world, in some cases, breast cancer may be diagnosed late, be misdiagnosed, or mastectomies performed to remove breast cancer can be incomplete.

Our medical negligence lawyers at Maurice Blackburn have represented many people who have suffered breast cancer misdiagnoses, delayed diagnoses of breast cancer and incomplete mastectomies.

Australian breast cancer statistics*

• The risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer over a lifetime is 1 in 7 for women and 1 in 556 for men
• Breast cancer is the most common cancer impacting Australian women
• It’s estimated that breast cancer will account for approximately 28 per cent of all new cancers in Australian women
• Approximately 80 per cent of new cases of breast cancer are in women aged 50 or above
• Breast cancer currently accounts for 14.1 per cent of all cancer deaths in Australian women

Early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can save lives

When diagnosed early, breast cancer is more likely to be treated successfully and almost all people with breast cancer survive the disease for five years or more. Australia has one of the best breast cancer survival rates in the world.

Breast cancer can be detected through attending regular screenings, self-checks and, in some cases, genetic testing. This investigative procedure may be available to you if you have a family history of cancer. Genetic testing is offered through family cancer clinics and is used to determine whether you carry a gene mutation. If you are found to carry a gene mutation, accessing measures for prevention and early detection of cancers may offer improved health outcomes.

However, in approximately 5% of women, breast cancer has already spread by the time it is diagnosed. 

Consequences of delayed or misdiagnosis of breast cancer

When breast cancer is diagnosed late or misdiagnosed, or when mastectomies performed to remove breast cancer are incomplete, it can cause the following consequences:

• Risk of breast cancer cells spreading from the breast to other parts of the body, usually through blood or lymph nodes
• More invasive treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery
• Increased risk of developing complications
• Reduced life expectancy and reduced chance of cure
• Increased risk of recurrence.

Any diagnosis of breast cancer is devastating for a patient and their families. When a diagnosis is delayed, missed, or occurs because of an incomplete mastectomy, this can increase distress and result in a significant impact on mental health.

Helping you access the support you need

We encourage everyone to prioritise their health by staying informed, attending regular screenings, performing self-checks and advocating for appropriate medical care.

If you or someone you know has received unreasonable medical treatment in relation to breast cancer diagnosis or treatment, we recommend that you seek timely legal advice from our experienced medical negligence lawyers to find out if you may be entitled to compensation.

*Breast Cancer Network Australia