Gina Riley's prognosis 'excellent'

Kath & Kim star Gina Riley is having treatment for breast cancer.

The 51-year-old Australian comic was diagnosed before Christmas and has since had the tumour removed, but is undergoing further treatment as ‘insurance’.

In a statement to the Melbourne Herald Sun, she said her story should prompt other women to undergo regular mammograms.

She said: ‘During my regular yearly breast check, a cancer in my breast was discovered. I know whenever I read of other women finding breast cancer I want to know, how it was found and were there any warning signs?

‘So here it is. For me there was no lump that could be felt by either me or my doctor. It was only that I went to my regular mammogram and ultrasound appointment that it was found.

‘The cancer has been found early and is treatable and for that I feel lucky and grateful. I am being looked after by an amazing medical team. I encourage woman to have regular breast checks, as the earlier it is found the better the outcome.'’

Medics at at Cabrini Hospital in Melbourne, where she is being treated, say her star's prognosis is excellent because the cancer was detected early.

Riley, who appeared alongside Jane Turner in last year’s Kath & Kimderella, is currently taking a break from work to recover.

Published: 18 Mar 2013