Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley announces the government will provide a $10 million funding boost for digital mammography screening to BreastScreen Victoria which has an assessment centre at Casey Hospital. 30549 Picture: Stewart Chambers
By Kelly Yates
LOCAL MP Judith Graley is encouraging women in the community to have regular breast checks in light of the government announcing a $10 million funding boost for digital mammography screening.
The funds are set for BreastScreen Victoria, which has an assessment centre at Casey Hospital, to complete the roll out of the equipment.
After putting her own breast cancer treatment behind her, Ms Graley told the News that the funding was fantastic for Casey women and their families.
“The better the service, the better the care,” Ms Graley said.
A Casey Hospital spokesperson said that any investment into improving the health of women was welcomed.
“It is important women in the south-east suburbs, as well as anywhere in the state, have access to the best health services possible.”
BreastScreen Victoria CEO Vicki Pridmore said digital mammography was one of the most significant developments in breast cancer screening and the early detection of breast cancer.
While the physical experience of having a mammogram will remain the same, Ms Pridmore said the digital technology gave radiologists a greater level of flexibility in analysing the image of the breast.
“Regular screening mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, before any symptoms are noticed and when treatment is likely to be most successful,” Ms Pridmore said.
Ms Graley, the Member for Narre Warren South, made her long awaited return to State Parliament last October after a nine-month lay-off recovering from breast cancer treatment.
