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 aggressive treatments.

Who can have a breast screen?

BreastScreen Queensland recommends free breast screening mammograms every two years for women who haven’t noticed any changes to their breasts:

• Women aged 50 to 74 (screening is most effective for women in this age range)
• Women aged 40 to 49 and 74+ (also eligible for a free screening mammogram)

You don’t need a doctor’s referral to book an appointment.

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

How breast screening works

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

Around one in 20 women screened will be called back to a BreastScreen Assessment clinic for further testing because the mammogram showed an abnormality. For most people, follow up tests are normal, and breast cancer isn’t found. Learn more about having follow up tests.

Culturally inclusive breast screening

Sistas Shawl program

• First Nations women screening at Gold Coast Service locations are presented a cultural shawl to wear during their screen. Read more about this initiative on the Gold Coast Health website.

Support for multicultural and disabled women

• 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 breast services. Learn more in the new 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 unit visits: Beaudesert, Eagleby, Elanora, Jimboomba, Nerang, North Tamborine and Pimpama annually

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 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 of a breast, 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.