The South Coast's mortality rate from breast cancer is significantly higher than the Australian average, data from the Australian Institute of Heath and Welfare shows.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The data, collected between 2011-15, showed the Shoalhaven had the sixth highest crude mortality rate in Australia at 42.9 compared to the national average of 24.7.
Mortality crude rate is number of new deaths in a period of time divided by the population. The AIHW said a high average age could help to explain a higher crude rate. This may, in part, explain the Shoalhaven's high rate.
The South Coast area, which included Eurobodalla and the Bega Valley Shire, had the second highest rate in the south-eastern region at 36.2.
The director of research investment at National Breast Cancer Foundation, Dr Chris Pettigrew, said people in remote or very remote areas were 35 per cent more likely to die within five years of a cancer diagnosis.
"There is still a lot we don't know about why regional areas have higher mortality rates," Dr Pettigrew said.
Read more:
"While it is easy to assume access to health services such as diagnostics and treatment are key factors, the reality is more complicated and involves lifestyle factors as well, such as alcohol consumption, socio-economic status and lower physical activity."
Dr Pettigrew said it was important for all Australians to be 'breast aware' and familiar with the look and feel of their breasts.
"We know that certain lifestyle factors can influence your risk of developing breast cancer, but there are also non-modifiable risk factors, such as family history or breast density that can impact your breast cancer risk.
"While you can't do anything to change non-modifiable risk factors like breast density and your genetics, you can still reduce your risk of breast cancer by making healthy lifestyle choices and managing modifiable risk factors.
He said some important steps you can take is to reduce your alcohol intake, not smoke, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight and diet.
If you have a family history of breast cancer you can speak with your GP about getting regular screening or genetic testing.