Breast Cancer NZ 'Pinkie' caravan in town

Jonathan Killick Reporter from Rodney Times

Hi neighbours

Breast Cancer New Zealand is inviting people in north Rodney to come and have a chat with them when they visit in 'pinkie' the caravan next week.

BCNZ chief executive Ah-Leen Rayner said it would be a great chance for women to get advice and learn how they can reduce the risk of getting breast cancer.

“One of Pinkie’s star attractions is Bessie, a life-like torso which shows the visible signs of breast cancer. Many women are often surprised to learn what a lump actually feels like, so we urge everyone to come along and find out for themselves," Rayner said.

They will be outside the Rodney Four Square in Wellsford on Wednesday, June 1, and New World in Warkworth on Thursday, June 2. They will be there both days from 9.30am to 2.30pm.

Around 400 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the Waitematā DHB area every year, and around 70 will die from it. Breast cancer is the most common cancer for New Zealand women but research shows the earlier it is detected, the better the outcome, according to BCNZ.

Breast Cancer Foundation NZ encourages women to be breast aware from the age of 20 and to consider starting mammograms at 40. Further advice can be sought by calling 0800 BC NURSE.