You can have breast cancer for years before you or your doctor notice that something is wrong - by which time it could be well-developed. A breast screen (or mammogram) can find cancer early, when it's small and easier to treat. A breast screen won't stop you from getting breast cancer, but it can give you a better chance of successful treatment. Who should attend breast cancer screening?
Women aged 50 and older are encouraged to have a mammogram every two years to screen for breast cancer. If you want to stop screening mammograms after the age of 70, discuss it with your doctor. Why is breast cancer screening important?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with one out of every 11 women in NSW affected at some stage in their life. The biggest risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman, and being over 50.
