When you should get screened for breast cancer

Cancer screening can be crucial in the early detection of breast cancer. Screening has shown to improve survival rates through the early detection of cancer. Finding cancer early, often means there are more treatment options available to you and increases your chances of successful treatment. In Australia, national screening programs are available for breast cancer, bowel cancer and cervical cancer.

Breast screening is recommended for women in Australia and can find breast cancer early, before it can be seen or felt. By understanding how screening works, its importance, and who should get screened, individuals can take proactive steps towards their health.  

Breast cancer screening guidelines in Australia
Breast cancer screening guidelines in Australia

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How breast screening worksHow breast screening works

The BreastScreen Australia Program provides free and easy access to mammograms to women over 40 who do not have any symptoms, encouraging early detection and treatment, improving survival rates and in some cases preventing cancer from progressing. 

Breast screening, also known as a mammogram, is a method used to detect breast cancer early, before it can be seen or felt. The process involves taking an X-ray of the breasts to identify any abnormalities that may indicate the presence of cancer.

The BreastScreen Australia Program offers screening at over 750 locations across Australia. The results of the screen are typically sent in the mail about two weeks after the test. This program is available free of charge.  

Who should screen through the BreastScreen program

Women aged between 50 and 74 years are invited to have a free breast screen every two years and will receive an invitation in the mail. Women aged between 40 and 49 years, or 75 years and older, can also have a free mammogram, but they won’t receive an invitation in the mail. This program is for women who have no breast cancer symptoms.   

For people who are at increased risk or have a high risk of developing breast cancer, more frequent screening may be suggested outside of the BreastScreen program. Please discuss your health and family history with your GP to determine the best screening program for you.   

When you should get screened for breast cancer
When you should get screened for breast cancer

The content found on the Icon Cancer Centre website is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical advice. It is not a substitute for consulting with a qualified medical professional. Our website is designed to provide information and support to the general public. Please be mindful that we do not dispense medical advice, and for personalised medical guidance, we strongly advise you to consult with a qualified medical professional or doctor.

References

Australia, C. (2012). Screening. www.canceraustralia.gov.au. https://www.canceraustralia.gov.au/awareness/screening 

Health. (2019a). Who should have a breast screen. Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/breastscreen-australia-program/having-a-breast-screen/who-should-have-a-breast-screen 

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