17 When life gets busy, it’s easy to let important health checks slip down the todo list. Between work, family, and everyday demands, that simple reminder to book a breast screen can often fall by the wayside. But here’s a friendly nudge — don’t wait. This small act of self-care could make a big difference. Peace of mind For most women, breast screening brings reassurance and peace of mind with most breast screens delivering a normal result with no breast cancer found. Many women say that receiving a clear result allows them to get on with life, free from that nagging feeling in the back of their minds. Early detection means more options The goal of breast screening is to find cancers when they’re very small — often too small to be seen or felt. When breast cancer is found early, it’s usually easier to treat and there are often more treatment options available. Early detection not only saves lives but can also lead to a better quality of life after diagnosis. Saving lives, one screen at a time Since the introduction of the BreastScreen Australia program, deaths from breast cancer have reduced significantly. There are different benefits and risks of breast screening depending on your age, risk factors, and other considerations. Regular screening mammograms are recommended every two years for most women aged 50 to 74 as the effectiveness of breast screening is strongest for this group. Free breast screens are available at BreastScreen Queensland services for eligible people aged 40 and over who haven’t noticed any breast changes. If you’re a woman aged 40 to 49 or 75 and over, with no family history or previous diagnosis of breast cancer, speak with your doctor to help decide if breast screening is right for you. Support is available The BreastScreen Queensland team are here to support you every step of the way. Videos and facts sheets in various languages can be found online to help you prepare for your visit, including information for individuals with disability and those who use a wheelchair or mobility aid. Interpreters and small group bookings can be arranged. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients visiting BreastScreen Queensland Gold Coast services, a Sistas Shawl (which can be worn or held during the screen) is offered alongside culturally supportive information. Convenient, quick and free Appointments are simple to book and available at convenient locations across Queensland. Permanent clinics are at Burleigh Waters, Helensvale, Robina and Southport. A mobile clinic visits other areas through the year including Nerang (February) and Elanora (March to April). Early morning and Saturday clinics are offered to help fit around your schedule. Book by phoning 13 20 50 or online at breastscreen.qld.gov.au Because peace of mind, early detection and better outcomes are all reasons to make booking a breast screen a priority. Regular screening could save your life
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