More than 12,000 Sunshine Coast women have been recruited to take part in a world first research study into breast density.
The study aims to help researchers understand what the advantages and potential disadvantages are of notifying women if they have dense breasts after regular screening, and what the best method of communication is.
BreastScreen Queensland Sunshine Coast lead investigator Dr Lisa Hammerton said she has been overwhelmed by the amazing response.
“We have seen a fantastic increase in the number of women having their first breast screen because of our involvement in this study,” she said.
While age remains the biggest risk factor for developing breast cancer, breast density can also increase the risk. Other factors include family history, lifestyle and a history of benign breast problems.
With the recruitment phase now over, participants will be interviewed across the next two years to determine the psychological impact after being notified about their breast density, and whether the mode of communicating this information influences their response.
The data will contribute to a Roadmap to Optimising Screening in Australia – the ROSA project.
“Our data will provide information on the best way to notify women about their breast density risk and also review breast density assessment tools,” Dr Hammerton said.
“We have some way to go before there is enough evidence to make recommendations for personalised risk-based screening, but hosting this study is a step towards progressive client focussed changes.
“Until then, our goal is to see more women participating in the BreastScreen program and increase our participation rate from 52 per cent, up to the National Standard of 70 per cent.”
The BreastScreen program saves lives through the early detection of breast cancer, which means more treatment options and better outcomes.
BreastScreen Queensland provides free breast cancer screening for women 40 years and over. No doctor’s referral is required. Bookings can be made by calling 132050 or visiting breastscreen.qld.gov.au.
