In the pink for breast cancer

Pink is the colour of the month, with Pink Ribbon Day on October 25 set to raise awareness for breast cancer in the South West.

Cancer Council WA regional education officer Angela Murray said one in nine Australian women would be diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 85.

"But there are many ways in which women can do their part to significantly reduce their risk of becoming a breast cancer statistic," she said.

South West Aboriginal Medical Service is one of the local services helping to campaign for breast cancer awareness, with an interactive and educational display to be held today at their premises.

SWAMS Aboriginal health promotion officer Julie Knipping said a women’s health nurse would be there to discuss early detection of breast cancer and the importance of being breast aware.

"The display encourages women to access service around town," Miss Knipping said.

Bunbury woman Jemma Lang is hosting her own Girls’ Night In tomorrow to fund raise for the Cancer Council WA.

A night in can take any form the host likes, from a girly movie night to home spa treatments to raise money and awareness for breast cancer, with all who attend asked to donate something.

Miss Lang said she had been in Bunbury for three years and although she had met a lot of nice women since, she hasn’t had an opportunity to get them all together until now.

Recent events prompted Miss Lang to host a party, with someone in her life being touched by cancer.

Between 25 and 35 people will attend her event, with each paying a $5 donation.

There will be also be a $50 note raffle, jewellery donation and a hot pink pedal car being raffled off.

A breast cancer screening van will also be in Capel for the month of November offering free mammograms.

Miss Knipping said the onset of the illness was earlier in 40-60 year olds and indigenous women were at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

The SWAMS medical clinic for indigenous women is open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm and appointments can be made by phoning 1800 779 000.