Over 1.7 million women had a screening mammogram through BreastScreen Australia in 2009-10, with 1.3 million being in the 50-69 year old target group according to a report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).

 

“BreastScreen Australia aims to reduce illness and deaths from breast cancer through early detection of unsuspected breast cancer, which allows early intervention,” said AIHW spokesperson Lisa McGlynn.

 

The Brestscreen Australia monitoring report 2009-2010 shows that 55 per cent of women aged 50-69 were screened over the 2009-10 period.

 

“To improve access for women in Remote and Very remote locations, states and territories use relocatable screening services, mobile screening vans and community buses to overcome transport barriers,” Ms McGlynn said.

 

The difference between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous women was greater, with 36% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women aged 50-69 having a screening mammogram in 2009-2010, compared with 55% of non-Indigenous women.