Everyone knows someone who has been touched by  cancer. It may be a mother or sister, a colleague or a friend.

This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time for women and men to learn how to detect changes in their breasts, and encourage others to do the same.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting Australian women, with an estimated 17,586 women and  144 men expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.

According to Pink Ribbon, breast cancer symptoms can include new lumps in the breast or underarm, changes in breast or nipple appearance and skin dimpling. Some people, however, may not experience any symptoms.

A former nurse, Just Better Care Chief Executive Officer Alison Chandler is encouraging all women, and men, to learn the symptoms of breast cancer and how to identify changes in their body.

“We all know someone who has had cancer and the impact the illness has on that person, their family and the wider community,” Ms Chandler said.

“Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder for all of us to regularly check our breasts for changes and ensure we are spreading the word amongst our family, friends, neighbours and colleagues.

“If you haven’t had your breasts checked, or learned how to check your own, now is the perfect time to chat with your GP and learn the steps and what to feel and look for.”

Breast cancer affects many people, but survival rates continue to improve, indicating just how important it is for people to regularly monitor changes in their body, and seek medical advice when something doesn’t seem quite right.

For more information on how to be breast aware, visit your local GP or specialist, or download useful resources here.