Breast screening: who qualifies and where to go

Breast cancer remains one of Australia's most common cancers among women, yet many Townsville residents are unaware of the screening services available to them locally. Understanding who qualifies and where to access screening is a crucial step in protecting your health and that of your family.

Who should be screened?

Women aged 50–74 are eligible for free mammograms through BreastScreen Australia, the national screening program. However, women aged 40–49 can also access screening—though it's typically not free. Women over 75 can request screening on an individual basis. If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, speak with your GP about personalised screening recommendations, which may begin earlier.

Local screening services

Townsville's primary screening facility is the BreastScreen Queensland clinic, located near Townsville Hospital on Eyre Street in the city centre. The service operates by appointment and is free for eligible women. To book, call 1300 657 267 or visit the BreastScreen Queensland website. Wait times are typically 2–4 weeks, though urgent referrals from GPs can be prioritised.

If you're unable to travel to the city centre, several local medical practices across suburbs like Aitkenvale, Hermit Park and Mysterton offer GP referrals and can arrange mobile screening clinics periodically. Ask your GP whether they have connections with outreach services.

What to expect

A standard mammogram takes about 15 minutes. You'll be asked to undress from the waist up, and a technician will position your breast between two plates to capture X-ray images. It can feel uncomfortable but is rarely painful. Results typically arrive within two weeks.

Beyond screening

Early detection saves lives, but screening is just one part of breast health. Monthly self-checks—knowing how your breasts normally look and feel—matter equally. Many Townsville women combine health routines with local wellness habits: walking Castle Hill's 2.5km track, swimming at the Strand Waterpark, or hiking Magnetic Island help maintain overall fitness and reduce cancer risk through healthy weight management.

Next steps

If you're aged 40–74 and haven't had a mammogram in the past two years, contact your GP or BreastScreen Queensland directly. Eligible women receive reminder letters by mail, but don't wait passively—book your appointment today. Your health is worth the 15 minutes.

For personalised medical advice about breast health or family risk factors, consult your local Townsville GP.

This article was compiled by AI from the sources linked above and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.