In this section we look at the tests for breast cancer, how breast cancer is diagnosed and staged, and who will provide your care,
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Overview
If you notice any breast changes or a swelling in your armpit, your GP will ask about your medical history and any family history of breast cancer. They will do a physical examination, checking both breasts and the lymph nodes in your armpit and above your collarbone.
They may also arrange imaging tests and a biopsy. This is called a triple test. Sometimes a specialist will arrange extra tests.
If you feel uncomfortable having a test, you can ask for a nurse, health professional, friend or family member to be in the room with you or, if that is not possible, to be nearby.
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Podcast: Tests and Cancer
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Understanding Cancer: Tests, Treatment and Support
Being told you have cancer can be overwhelming — but you’re not alone. This video explains what happens after a diagnosis, the different treatment options, and how Cancer Council can support you. Click on Settings 
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A/Prof Cindy Mak, Breast Surgeon and Director of Breast Services, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, NSW; A/Prof Nick Murray, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Royal Adelaide Hospital and GenesisCare Adelaide, SA; Caroline Bennett, Consumer; Tamara Casey, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Breast Assessment Unit, Fiona Stanley Hospital, WA; A/Prof Joe Dusseldorp, Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, NSW; Lauren Lores, Consumer; Dr Linda Madigan, Breast Physician, Royal Adelaide Hospital, SA; Catherine Meredith, Consumer; Ash Mondolo, Breast Cancer Clinical Nurse Consultant, Mater Private Hospital, QLD; Chris Rivett, 13 11 20 Consultant, Cancer Council SA; Catrina Ross, McGrath Breast Care Nurse, Northern Sydney Local Health District, NSW; Prof Christobel Saunders AO, James Stewart Chair of Surgery and Director of Research, Melbourne Medical School, The University of Melbourne, VIC; Dr Janice Yeh, Radiation Oncologist, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, VIC; A/Prof Yvonne Zissiadis, Radiation Oncologist, Medical Director, GenesisCare WA and Adjunct A/Prof, Curtin University, WA.
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