Adelaide breakfast presenter Ali Clarke has launched a new initiative “MIX 102.3 BREAST CHECK DAY,” focused on breast cancer awareness. Ali shared her own breast cancer diagnosis with listeners last month, which spurred on significant public interest and support.
The initiative, calls on Australians to perform regular self-breast checks. It stresses the importance of making self-examinations a routine part of women’s health regimens. Going forward, Mix 102.3 will remind its audience on the first day of each month to check their breasts. The campaign uses the memorable phrase, “Have you felt yours lately?” to engage and remind listeners of this vital health practice.
Ali Clarke, who hosts the popular ‘Max & Ali in the Mornings’ show, spoke about her commitment to using her diagnosis as a catalyst for change. “We are encouraging everyone to feel their boobs or get friendly with their breasts on the first of every month. Because there isn’t a cure for breast cancer it is all about early prevention,” Clarke said.
The need for such a campaign was made starkly apparent by the public reaction following Clarke’s announcement. BreastScreen SA reported a significant spike in women booking breast screenings, recording 779 appointments in one day, a figure only overshadowed by the bookings made when Kylie Minogue announced her cancer diagnosis years ago.
Lauren Joyce, ARN Chief Strategy & Connections Officer, emphasised the impact of Clarke’s openness about her condition. “Ali’s bravery has inspired a wave of action, and we want to keep that momentum going. Regular self-checks can make a huge difference, and we’re here to remind our listeners to take that important step,” Joyce stated.
The initiative aims not only to promote regular self-examinations but also to educate women on the signs and symptoms of breast abnormalities, which can significantly enhance early detection efforts. By incorporating this practice into the monthly routine of listeners, “MIX 102.3 BREAST CHECK DAY” strives to not only save lives but also to alleviate the emotional and physical toll on families and reduce the impact on the healthcare system.
As the campaign kicks off, Ali Clarke passionately reminded listeners of the importance of dialogue and regular checks: “It’s about early detection, and ask your girlfriends, wives, sisters and aunties… have you checked yours lately?”