As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re shining a spotlight on Dr Rachel Claridge, Radiologist at Pacific Radiology Canterbury and Radiologist and Director at Canterbury Breastcare.
For Dr Rachel Claridge, one of the most rewarding parts of working in breast imaging is the opportunity to make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
“The most rewarding parts are meeting patients, the complexity and challenge of interpreting different types of breast imaging, and being able to make a real difference, particularly through early cancer detection,” Rachel says.
She also values the highly collaborative nature of working at Canterbury Breastcare.
“I really enjoy working with the team at CBC, as well as working closely with a multidisciplinary clinical team to help ensure high-quality care and treatment.”
A rapidly changing field
Breast imaging continues to evolve, with new technology changing how breast cancer can be detected and assessed.
Rachel says some of the biggest developments she has seen during her career include the integration of AI tools, a move towards risk-based screening, and greater use of contrast imaging such as contrast-enhanced mammography and MRI alongside mammography, particularly for women with dense breasts.
Treatment has evolved too. Advances in oncoplastic surgery mean more women may have breast-conserving options, combining cancer removal with techniques that support the best possible cosmetic outcome.
For Rachel, these developments make breast imaging a continually interesting and challenging area of radiology to work in.
Don’t put off getting checked
Rachel’s advice for anyone who has been putting off getting checked is simple: “Don’t delay. Early detection saves lives.”
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also an opportunity to understand the difference between breast screening and getting a symptom investigated.
Breast screening is for women who do not have breast symptoms. If you notice a change such as a lump, puckering of the skin or nipple discharge, Rachel says it is important to talk to your GP about diagnostic breast imaging rather than waiting for your next routine screening appointment.
For Rachel, it comes back to giving women the best opportunity for early detection, appropriate care and treatment.
