Research
We support collaboration with researchers and share our data for research that delivers better health outcomes for the community.
We contribute to research by:
- Helping to define research questions
- Sharing our data
- Collaborating on research projects and
- Publications
- Applying research outcomes to our program
BreastScreen Victoria has over 30 years of longitudinal data collected against national standards and frameworks, which means our data is a rich source of information.
De-identified data can be accessed to support research aimed at improving health outcomes, and where the research is in the interest of current and future clients and is aligned with BreastScreen Victoria's Research Framework.
Research Framework
Our Research Framework aims to maximise the benefit of research on our population-based breast cancer screening program which aims to reduce the impact of breast cancer and save lives through early detection.
Then Research Framework details the research enablers, principles and priorities that align with the desired outcomes of our program. It is a tool for researchers, research institutions, funding bodies and partners to see the areas of greatest need and interest to BSV.
Download the BreastScreen Victoria Research Framework
Data access for researchers
Lifepool
Lifepool is a unique resource for research that combines health and lifestyle information, mammographic density data and health linkage data from over 55,000 women to date. Lifepool also collects DNA from a subset of participants, as well as tumour samples from women diagnosed with breast cancer.
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, in partnership with BreastScreen Victoria, Melbourne Health and the University of Melbourne established Lifepool. This population cohort supports research that focuses on better understanding factors contributing to breast cancer risk. Over 90 per cent of participants are clients of BreastScreen Victoria.
Each Lifepool participant has provided informed consent for the use of their data, including BreastScreen Victoria data, for research into breast cancer and other women’s health issues.
Researchers are encouraged to explore access to the Lifepool cohort before contacting BreastScreen Victoria. Further information is available on the Lifepool website.
How to access data outside of Lifepool
If the needs of your study cannot be met by Lifepool, click here to find out more about accessing BreastScreen Victoria data for your research.