New statement highlights need for all Australian women to be informed of their breast density and cancer risk

Breast Cancer Network Australia calls on governments to ensure all Australian women receive essential breast density information to improve early diagnosis and save lives

Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) has welcomed the release of BreastScreen Australia’s new Position Statement on Mammographic (Breast) Density and Screening as a significant step forward for transparency and empowering women to understand their breast cancer risk.

The updated national statement recommends that all women screened through BreastScreen Australia be informed in writing of their breast density and encouraged to discuss this information with their GP or breast cancer specialist.

Breast density refers to the amount of glandular and connective tissue in the breast compared to fatty tissue, as seen on a mammogram. High breast density not only makes breast cancer harder to detect through routine 2D mammography but is itself an independent risk factor for developing breast cancer.

BCNA Director of Policy, Advocacy & Support Services, Vicki Durston, said the move is a positive step, but highlighted the stark divide that remains across the country.

Ms Durston commended Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales for leading the way, but called on Queensland, Tasmania, Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory to act to report breast density without delay. She stressed that a woman’s access to potentially life-saving information about her breast density and cancer risk should not depend on where they live.

“Every woman has the right to know her breast density and understand her breast cancer risk. We need every state and territory to act now to provide this information, along with clear pathways for supporting women at higher risk,” Ms Durston said.

“Unfortunately, women in states and territories without breast density reporting, including Queensland, Tasmania, the ACT and Northern Territory, are still missing out on this important information.”

“This is out of step with the new national guidance and the progress being made elsewhere that shows timely implementation is both achievable and beneficial for women.”

Breast surgeon Dr Melanie Walker emphasised the importance of the new statement and the need for further action.

“As breast surgeons, we understand that breast density is not just a factor in cancer detection - it’s also a critical element in a woman’s overall breast cancer risk. The national statement is a vital step forward in helping women access this information, but it must be matched by a clear pathway for comprehensive risk assessment and access to supplemental screening where needed.”

“We call on governments to invest in the infrastructure and funding required to support this, so all women - regardless of where they live - can receive equitable, high-quality breast cancer care.”

Kym Berchtenbreiter, who has lived experience with breast cancer, shared her personal perspective on the importance of breast density reporting.

“Had I known I had dense breasts when I received a negative BreastScreen mammogram result, my outcome may have been very different, but within 12 months of that negative result I was subsequently diagnosed with Early Breast Cancer and underwent a mastectomy, chemotherapy and years of hormone blocking treatment.”

“It’s vital that women are informed about their breast density, so they can make informed decisions about supplemental screening options. We are so fortunate to have a breast screening program in Australia but let’s make it even better, and save more lives, by having a national commitment to reporting breast density.”

BCNA looks forward to working with governments and BreastScreen services across Australia to support the rollout of these recommendations and to continue advocating for the best possible pathways for those at high risk of breast cancer.

For support and more information about breast cancer, call BCNA’s Helpline on 1800 500 258 or visit bcna.org.au.

For media enquiries, including interviews, contact:

Edwina Pearse
Breast Cancer Network Australia
03 9805 2540
media@bcna.org.au