Health authorities are urging eligible women to make time for a free mammogram, with 45.2 per cent across Northern NSW overdue for their recommended two-yearly breast screen.
Almost half of eligible women across the Northern NSW Local Health District are overdue for breast screening, prompting a renewed appeal during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Latest figures show 45.2 per cent of eligible women have not received their recommended two-yearly mammogram through BreastScreen NSW.
Women aged 50 to 74 are encouraged to have a breast screen every two years. The free appointment takes about 20 minutes and does not require a doctor’s referral.
Breast screening can detect cancer before it can be seen or felt. Early detection can provide more treatment options and improve the likelihood of successful treatment.
BreastScreen NSW Northern NSW Screening Assessment Service director Patrick Magee said screening should become a routine health priority.
“If you’re aged 50 to 74, make your breast screen a priority,” Mr Magee said.
“It’s a simple appointment that only takes 20 minutes, and you don’t need a doctor’s referral.
“Finding breast cancer early can give people more treatment options and improve their chances of survival.”
Almost 7,000 women across NSW are expected to receive a breast cancer diagnosis during 2026.
Despite the importance of early detection, a recent survey of more than 25,000 BreastScreen NSW clients found that competing demands frequently caused women to delay their mammograms.
More than 40 per cent of respondents said they postponed screening because they were too busy. A further 17 per cent said they had simply forgotten.
However, the survey recorded high satisfaction among women who used the service.
More than 97 per cent said they would speak highly of BreastScreen NSW, while 99.8 per cent found staff polite and courteous. Almost 98 per cent felt comfortable with their radiographer, and 98.7 per cent rated their overall experience as good or very good.
Acting Cancer Institute NSW chief executive Professor Megan Varlow said breast cancer could develop without noticeable symptoms.
“I know that all women are busy, but the reality is that breast cancer can develop without any symptoms,” Professor Varlow said.
“If you put off screening, you could miss the opportunity to detect cancer early.”
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women. Age and being female are the two greatest risk factors, rather than family history.
BreastScreen NSW recommends Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women begin screening from the age of 40 and continue every two years until 74.
Women in their 40s and those aged over 74 may also be eligible for free screening. However, they should discuss their circumstances and individual risk with their doctor.
Screening mammograms are intended for people without symptoms. Anyone who notices a breast change, including a lump, nipple change, unusual discharge, skin dimpling or persistent pain, should contact their doctor without delay rather than wait for a screening appointment.
Pink Party Coming To Lismore
BreastScreen NSW will hold a Pink Party at its Lismore clinic on Friday, October 16, from 10am to 2pm.
The event at 29 Uralba Street will encourage women to book a mammogram with a friend while learning more about breast health in a welcoming environment.
Refreshments, giveaways and Pink Party treats will be available, while BreastScreen staff will answer questions and support women through the booking and screening process.
The event forms part of the statewide Be a Friend. Tell a Friend campaign, which encourages conversations about breast screening among friends, relatives and colleagues.
Free mammograms can be booked by calling 13 20 50 or visiting breastscreen.nsw.gov.au.
