Weighing up the benefits, risks and limitations of breast screening
More than 75% of breast cancers occur in women over 50 – and having a breast screen every 2 years is the best way to detect cancer early, when it’s too small to feel.
However, like all health choices, breast screening comes with its benefits, risks and limitations. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision about having a breast screen.
Benefits of breast screening
- Reduced risks of deaths. Regular screening can prevent deaths from breast cancer, as the earlier the cancer is found, the better your chance of surviving it.
- Early detection. Breast screens are still the most effective way to detect breast cancer early – even before you can feel or notice them.
- Better recovery rate. If breast cancer is found early, it’s more likely to be small and early-stage. This usually means less invasive treatments and higher success rates.
- Becoming more breast aware. Screening every 2 years can help you stay informed about your breast health. It’s also important to check your breasts at different times of the month and get to know their normal look and feel. If you notice any changes, please see your doctor immediately.
- Peace of mind. Screening encourages you to take a proactive approach to your healthcare, and a normal screening result can give you confidence and relief.
Potential risks of breast screening
- Radiation exposure. When having a breast screen, your breasts are exposed to a small amount of radiation – this is similar to what you’d be exposed to in a flight from Australia to London. Research shows that the benefits of regular breast screens outweigh any possible risks from radiation.
- False positives. You may be called back for more tests if your X-ray shows something unusual or a change since your last breast screen. However, most people who are invited for further tests will not have cancer.
- Overdiagnosis. Some people may be treated for cancer that wouldn’t have progressed or caused harm. This is known as ‘overdiagnosis’. However, because it’s impossible to predict which cases might become life-threatening, treatment is typically offered to everyone diagnosed with breast cancer.
- Anxiety. Having a breast screen may cause stress in some people, specially when waiting for results.
Limitations of breast screening
- Limited detection capability. Breast screening is currently the most reliable means of detecting breast cancer, but it’s not perfect. There’s a small chance that a breast screen will look normal even if breast cancer is present.
- Diagnosed during screening intervals. A very small number of women are diagnosed with breast cancer between their breast screen appointments.
- Does not prevent cancer. While breast screening can detect cancer and increase success rates of treatment, it does not stop cancer from developing.
- Not recommended for younger women. Breast screens are not recommended for people under 40 as younger breast tissue is usually denser, making it more difficult for X-rays to detect breast cancers.
You can ask for the breast screen to stop at any time
What is informed consent?
Informed consent is your personal decision about medical care, made with an understanding of the benefits and risks involved. When booking a breast screen, you’ll complete a registration and consent form.
If you’re unable to give informed consent, your legal medical agent or guardian may do so on your behalf.
You can withdraw consent
You can withdraw consent at any time throughout the screening process. If you feel distressed, are in pain or wish to stop for any other reason, we will stop your screen and address your concerns.