Helping Patients Overcome Barriers to Breast Cancer Screening Participation

In Australia, the lifetime risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer is one in seven for women and one in 556 for men. In addition, around 80% of new breast cancer cases occur in women aged 50 and older ^[1].

Early detection and proper treatment can greatly enhance breast cancer survival rates, with mammograms being the most effective screening tool. Women aged between 50 and 74 years and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients aged 40 and over are invited to have a free mammogram every two years. Women aged between 40 and 49 years can also screen and are encouraged to speak to their doctor first to find out if breast screening is right for them.

Educating both women and men about breast cancer symptoms, diagnosis and treatment is essential for informed decision-making regarding mammograms. It’s also crucial to address myths and barriers that prevent people from participating in breast screening, such as:

• Time constraints
• Fear of pain
• Fear of a diagnosis
• Limited access to health information
• Language barriers
• Presence of breast implants
• Concerns around modesty

GPs and practice nurses play a vital role in supporting and motivating people to participate in the BreastScreen Australia program. Although a referral is not required, research shows that women are more likely to get a mammogram when their GP recommends it.  GPs should also follow up with their patients to ensure they adhere to the recommended two-year screening interval.

While promoting the benefits of early detection and mammography, it’s also important to educate about the potential risks, including false negatives, false positives, discomfort, and radiation exposure.