Breast Cancer Screening

Why breast screening matters

Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among Australian women, and nine out of 10 women diagnosed have no family history. Early detection through breast screening can find cancer before it can be seen or felt, leading to more treatment options and better outcomes.

To make an appointment or for more information go to BreastScreen Queensland or call 13 20 50.

• 95 out of 100 women receive a normal breast screening result (this means there’s no signs of breast cancer on their X-rays).
• Finding breast cancer early increases treatment success and reduces the need for invasive treatments.

Who can have a breast screen?

BreastScreen Queensland recommends screening mammograms (breast screens) every two years for women who haven’t noticed any changes to their breasts.

• Screening is most effective for women aged 50 to 74
• Women aged 40 to 49 are also eligible for free breast screens

Learn more about who can have a breast screen including trans and gender diverse people who meet the eligibility criteria.

A doctor’s referral is not needed to book an appointment.

How breast screening works

BreastScreen Queensland uses mammography (X-ray imaging of the breast) – the most effective screening test to detect breast cancer in older women. Learn more about what happens at a breast screening appointment.

Around one in 20 clients screened will be called back to a BreastScreen Assessment clinic for further testing because the mammogram showed an abnormality. For most people, follow up test results will be normal, with no breast cancer found. Learn more about having follow up tests.

Culturally inclusive breast screening

Sistas Shawl program

• First Nations clients screened at Gold Coast Service locations are offered a cultural shawl to wear or hold during their screen. Read more about this initiative on the Gold Coast Health website.

Support for culturally and linguistically diverse consumers and consumers with disability

• Translated resources including fact sheets and videos are available in multiple languages, including Auslan. View online resources for women from multicultural communities and women with disability.

Commitment to accessibility and inclusion

• BreastScreen Queensland is committed to providing equitable, accessible, inclusive and culturally safe beast services. Learn more in the BreastScreen Queensland Strategic Plan 2025-2032.

Convenient Gold Coast locations

BreastScreen Queensland services are available at:

• Permanent locations: Burleigh Waters, Helensvale, Robina and Southport
• Mobile clinics: Beaudesert, Eagleby, Elanora, Jimboomba, Nerang, North Tamborine and Pimpama (annual visits)

Book an appointment:

• Call 13 20 50 to connect to your nearest BreastScreen service
• Book online at the BreastScreen Queensland website
• Interpreter assistance available – call 13 14 50 first
• Some after-hours appointments available

Be breast aware

Even with regular screening, it’s important to learn what your breasts/chest normally look and feel like. See your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual changes including:

• A lump, lumpiness or thickening of the breast or armpit
• Changes in the skin such as puckering, dimpling or a rash
• Persistent or unusual breast pain
• Discharge from a nipple, a nipple rash, or a change in its shape
• A change in the shape or size of a breast
• An area that feels different to other parts of the breast

Download the Cancer Council Queensland fact sheet: breast awareness.