Every check matters this Women’s Health Week

From heart health and breast awareness to cancer screening and bone strength, clinicians at Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) are encouraging women to take charge of their wellbeing by keeping up to date with routine health checks.

Staff Specialist Cardiologist, Dr Juliana Kanawati, says that despite heart disease being the leading cause of death for Australian women, many still don’t realise they’re at risk.

Staff Specialist Cardiologist, Dr Juliana Kanawati

“Heart disease is often seen as a men’s issue partly because women have been underrepresented in research, and their symptoms can be more subtle,” says Juliana.

“Women are more likely to present with fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness or jaw and neck discomfort, rather than the ‘classic’ chest pain. That’s why it’s so important to stay vigilant.”

Juliana recommends that women have a heart health check every one to two years starting at age 45 or earlier if they have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of heart disease.

“My advice is to prioritise your heart health. Prevent heart disease by staying active, eating well, and booking regular heart checks with your GP even if you feel fine.”

When it comes to breast health, NBMLHD Breast Care Nurse, Bianca Dobbins-Jones is passionate about helping women feel more confident in checking themselves regularly.

NBMLHD Breast Care Nurse, Bianca Dobbins-Jones

“Being breast aware means getting to know how your breasts look and feel and checking them once a month,” says Bianca.

“As well as feeling for lumps or changes in your breast, also stand in front of a mirror with your hands on your hips and check for any changes - skin thickening, nipple discharge, lumps under your arms or near your collarbones. If you notice anything unusual, even after a normal screening, see your GP.”

Bianca encourages women to make breast checks a normal part of life, and to support each other to do the same.

“Talk about it with your sisters, your mum, your friends. We all need those reminders and from age 40, you can access free breast screening, even though it’s actively promoted from 50.”

Local women can access breast screening services at:

• Penrith: Westfield Shopping Centre, Myer; Level 1, 585 High Street
• Springwood: Mobile van at Springwood Village, 177 Macquarie Road from 25 August – 3 October 2025

Did you know?

• Women aged 25–74 should have a cervical screening test every five years
• Women aged 50–74 should have a mammogram every two years
• Women aged 50–74 are sent a free bowel screening kit every two years
• A bone health check is recommended from age 45
• A general check-up with your GP is recommended once a year

Every woman’s health journey is unique but staying informed and proactive is something all women can do.

Routine health checks can save lives. Start by booking that check-up you’ve been putting off because your health matters and every check really does count.