Early breast cancer detections are likely with new 3D screening rolled out in Victoria

Record numbers of women in Victoria are undergoing breast cancer checks each year, but revolutionary new technology is set to save even more women.

Revolutionary 3D screening technology will help diagnose breast cancer faster and cut down on invasive procedures.

Diagnosing breast cancer is about to be revolutionised in Victoria with new cutting-edge 3D breast screening technology set to be rolled out.

The new technology will lead to quicker diagnosis and cut down on invasive procedures, according to Health Minister Jenny Mikakos, who is announcing $1.8 million for six new digital breast tomosyntheses machines on Monday.

“Early diagnosis is the key to surviving breast cancer and 3D imaging means more women can get a more accurate picture with faster results, and less unnecessary and invasive follow-up testing at no expense to eligible women,” she said.

Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos. AAP Image/Daniel Pockett

“More Victorians than ever before are being screened for breast cancer.

“A free, two-yearly screen is so important. It could save your life or that of someone you love.”

The move comes as women continue to get checked at record rates.

Last financial year 267,589 women were screened for breast cancer by BreastScreen Victoria – the highest number ever.

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For women in the BreastScreen Victoria program who are called back for more tests, the machines can take a 3D image, instead of the standard 2D image, delivering a faster diagnosis.

The new machines will be rolled out to the North Western BreastScreen Victoria Reading and Assessment Service at the Royal Melbourne Hospital and at services in Ballarat, Bendigo and Traralgon. There will also be two machines at Monash Health in East Bentleigh.

Victorian women between 50 and 74 years of age are encouraged to have a free, two-yearly breast screen by calling 13 20 50 or booking online.

For more information visit www.breastscreen.org.au

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