Screening programs are government-funded programs which offer free screening to large numbers of people. The screening program for breast cancer is called BreastScreen.

The BreastScreen program invites women aged between 50 and 74 for a free screening test (mammogram) every two years. Women aged 40-49, and over 74 can also take part but don’t get sent an invitation.

A screening mammogram can pick up cancers in the breast before they are big enough to feel.

• Most women who are screened will have a normal mammogram.
• Women who have an abnormal mammogram will be called back for more tests.
• Only a very small number of women called back for tests will have breast cancer.

If an abnormality is found, this does not always mean you have cancer. You will need further tests to find out.

You will be contacted  to return for further tests. These can include a breast ultrasound, clinical breast examination and a needle biopsy. If required your GP will be notified and asked to refer you to a specialist.

If you have a high risk of breast cancer, you may need to be screened earlier and more often. You also need to be breast aware and see your GP if you notice any breast changes.

This includes women with:

• the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation or some other genetic syndromes
• a strong family history of breast cancer
• previous diagnosis of a breast abnormality
• previous radiation therapy to the chest.

If you think you have a high risk of breast cancer, talk to your GP about screening.