There has been an uptick in participation rates within the Brimbank community for breast cancer screening, recent data released by BreastScreen Victoria indicates.
From July 2021 to June 2023, the participation rate among women aged between 50 to 74, living in Brimbank rose to 50.4 per cent, compared to the previous reporting period, which stood at 45.5 per cent from July 2020 to June 2022.
BreastScreen Victoria, the organisation spearheading these efforts, has been actively working to promote regular breast screenings as a critical tool in the fight against breast cancer.
BreastScreen Victoria reports that breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer in Australian women, and early detection plays a crucial role in improving health outcomes.
Across the state, there has also been an increase in participation in the program – with the state-wide participation rate rising from 49.5 per cent in 2020-2022 to 51.1 per cent in 2021-2023.
BreastScreen Victoria chief executive Rita Butera emphasised the importance of continued efforts to ensure that all eligible individuals, including women, trans, and gender-diverse people aged 50 to 74 without breast symptoms, are having their breast screens.
“We strive to deliver a breast cancer screening program that is accessible and inclusive for women, trans and gender diverse populations, as well as making sure that it is culturally safe,” she said.
BreastScreen Victoria reports that age is the biggest risk factor for breast cancer with 75 per cent of breast cancers occurring in women over 50.
Locals are encouraged to take advantage of the resources available and book their free breast screen appointments. Those aged between 50 to 74, are recommended to breast screen every two years.
Breast screens are free for women and trans and gender-diverse people with no breast symptoms. Each appointment lasts 10 minutes, and there is no need for a doctor’s referral or Medicare card. Breast screens are performed by women radiographers.
BreastScreen Victoria has a range of information about the breast screening program, including eligibility and common questions at, www.breastscreen.org.au/resources/community/
To book an appointment call 13 20 50 or visit breastscreen.org.au
