Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is calling on the Federal Government to immediately action recommended reforms to the national&nbsp;BreastScreen program. The latest AIHW data reveals participation in BreastScreen has flatlined for more than 20 years. Despite three decades of investment, BreastScreen is outdated, and reviews have not kept pace with advancements in technology and population growth and remains a one-size-fits-all model for all Australian women.

The&nbsp;BreastScreen Australia Monitoring Report 2025&nbsp;shows that in 2023 – 2024 1.9 million women aged 50–74 participated in BreastScreen — just 52.0% of the target population. This is only a marginal rise from 50.0% in 2021–2022, 1.8 million and reflects population growth and COVID recovery — not genuine program improvement. Of particular concern is consistently poor uptake and equity of access to screening by indigenous communities in the Northern Territory.

BCNA Director of Policy, Advocacy &amp; Support Services, Vicki Durston, said the results are falling short of community expectations.

“We need the national screening program to work. Yes, more women are being screened — but that’s because there are more women, not because the program is performing better. The proportion screened has barely shifted since the 1990s. We are still well short of the 70% benchmark set by our own government, and far behind countries like Denmark, Sweden and Finland, where participation exceeds 80%. Australia is falling dangerously behind. The data released today clearly demonstrates that breast cancer is not solved and we still have a long way to go. “

BCNA is concerned there is a lack of national consistency on breast density reporting; no clear pathway to embrace risk stratified screening and a lack of clear direction and national investment in AI to support workforce shortages and improved technology to detect breast cancer early.

As Australia begins breast cancer awareness month Ms Durston says it’s unacceptable that the BreastScreen Australia National Policy and Funding Review, announced in 2023, has now been delayed until 2026.” Screening saves lives but without bold reform, Australia’s breast screening program will remain outdated, fragmented, and well below the benchmark our own government has set. Women and their families deserve better.”

Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is calling on the Federal Government to immediately action recommended reforms to the national&nbsp;BreastScreen program. The latest AIHW data reveals participation in BreastScreen has flatlined for more than 20 years. Despite three decades of investment, BreastScreen is outdated, and reviews have not kept pace with advancements in technology and population growth and remains a one-size-fits-all model for all Australian women.The&nbsp;BreastScreen Australia Monitoring Report 2025&nbsp;shows that in 2023 – 2024 1.9 million women aged 50–74 participated in BreastScreen — just 52.0% of the target population. This is only a marginal rise from 50.0% in 2021–2022, 1.8 million and reflects population growth and COVID recovery — not genuine program improvement. Of particular concern is consistently poor uptake and equity of access to screening by indigenous communities in the Northern Territory.BCNA Director of Policy, Advocacy &amp; Support Services, Vicki Durston, said the results are falling short of community expectations.“We need the national screening program to work. Yes, more women are being screened — but that’s because there are more women, not because the program is performing better. The proportion screened has barely shifted since the 1990s. We are still well short of the 70% benchmark set by our own government, and far behind countries like Denmark, Sweden and Finland, where participation exceeds 80%. Australia is falling dangerously behind. The data released today clearly demonstrates that breast cancer is not solved and we still have a long way to go. “BCNA is concerned there is a lack of national consistency on breast density reporting; no clear pathway to embrace risk stratified screening and a lack of clear direction and national investment in AI to support workforce shortages and improved technology to detect breast cancer early.As Australia begins breast cancer awareness month Ms Durston says it’s unacceptable that the BreastScreen Australia National Policy and Funding Review, announced in 2023, has now been delayed until 2026.” Screening saves lives but without bold reform, Australia’s breast screening program will remain outdated, fragmented, and well below the benchmark our own government has set. Women and their families deserve better.”

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BreastScreen progress has flatlined. BCNA responds to AIHW data.

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 &amp; 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.

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 &amp; 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.

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

You can trust a&nbsp;Pinky Promise and every year Bakers Delight bakeries in local communities make good on their commitment to support Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and all Australians affected by breast cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Each May for a quarter of a century, Bakers Delight bakeries around the country have produced the trademark Pink Buns, donating 100% of sales to Breast Cancer Network Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Every Pink Bun counts! Over $ 27 million has gone towards ensuring BCNA provides the very best information and support is available to the more than 21,000 people diagnosed with breast cancer every year.&nbsp;&nbsp;

DOUBLE DONATION DAY. On Friday 9th&nbsp;May the Fun Buns will make an even bigger impact. Bakers Delight has pledged to match the dollars raised from every Fun Bun 6 Pack purchased.&nbsp;

Bakers Delight Joint CEO, Elise Gillespie says Pink Buns for BCNA is part of the organisation's DNA. “We are keeping our Pinky Promise because breast cancer isn’t done yet, and neither are we. We are so proud of the way our bakeries get behind the annual campaign and connect with their local communities. We all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer, including some of our bakers and staff and the pink buns start some important conversations.”&nbsp;

Breast Cancer Network Australia, CEO, Kirsten Pilatti says the long partnership with Bakers Delight is authentic in both words and actions. “This is a Pinky Promise that has been made and kept for 25 years. Pink Buns taste great and importantly enable us to be a powerful voice and support for Australians affected by breast cancer that is truly amazing. BCNA is the gold standard in driving powerful change and better outcomes, that’s a lot of bang for your Pink Bun.” ” &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pink Bun 2025 has a fundraising target of $2.5 million.&nbsp;

Pink Buns go on sale on 1 May – through to 21 May 2025 –&nbsp;&nbsp;

Six pack of Pink Buns is $8.50&nbsp;&nbsp;

You can trust a&nbsp;Pinky Promise and every year Bakers Delight bakeries in local communities make good on their commitment to support Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) and all Australians affected by breast cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Each May for a quarter of a century, Bakers Delight bakeries around the country have produced the trademark Pink Buns, donating 100% of sales to Breast Cancer Network Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;Every Pink Bun counts! Over $ 27 million has gone towards ensuring BCNA provides the very best information and support is available to the more than 21,000 people diagnosed with breast cancer every year.&nbsp;&nbsp;DOUBLE DONATION DAY. On Friday 9th&nbsp;May the Fun Buns will make an even bigger impact. Bakers Delight has pledged to match the dollars raised from every Fun Bun 6 Pack purchased.&nbsp;Bakers Delight Joint CEO, Elise Gillespie says Pink Buns for BCNA is part of the organisation's DNA. “We are keeping our Pinky Promise because breast cancer isn’t done yet, and neither are we. We are so proud of the way our bakeries get behind the annual campaign and connect with their local communities. We all know someone who has been affected by breast cancer, including some of our bakers and staff and the pink buns start some important conversations.”&nbsp;Breast Cancer Network Australia, CEO, Kirsten Pilatti says the long partnership with Bakers Delight is authentic in both words and actions. “This is a Pinky Promise that has been made and kept for 25 years. Pink Buns taste great and importantly enable us to be a powerful voice and support for Australians affected by breast cancer that is truly amazing. BCNA is the gold standard in driving powerful change and better outcomes, that’s a lot of bang for your Pink Bun.” ” &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Pink Bun 2025 has a fundraising target of $2.5 million.&nbsp;Pink Buns go on sale on 1 May – through to 21 May 2025 –&nbsp;&nbsp;Double Donation Day – 9&nbsp;May&nbsp;Six pack of Pink Buns is $8.50&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Foundations / Associations

Local bakeries’ ‘Pinky Promise’ to support Australians with breast cancer celebrate 25 years.

A world-first study has revealed that two hours of supervised exercise per week significantly benefits people with metastatic breast cancer, improving quality of life while reducing healthcare costs.

The&nbsp;PREFERABLE-EFFECT&nbsp;trial, involving 357 participants worldwide, including 135 Australians, is the most extensive exercise study conducted for this population. Participants completed a nine-month program of supervised aerobic, resistance, and balance exercises twice a week, compared to those following general activity advice. Participants in the supervised exercise program experienced significant improvements in quality of life, with reductions in debilitating symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and emotional distress, enabling them to lead fuller, more active lives.

Metastatic breast cancer is an advanced stage of the disease where cancer has spread beyond the breast. While treatable, it remains incurable and presents unique challenges for both treatment and quality of life. As the number of individuals diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer increases, so too do the associated costs, exceeding $1 billion annually in Australia. Investing in supportive care strategies, such as supervised exercise programs, is crucial for managing the cancer burden and mitigating disease- and treatment-related side effects. These findings published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology highlight the potential of such programs to alleviate both economic and healthcare challenges related to metastatic breast cancer&nbsp;lead Australian researcher, Melbourne exercise Physiologist Dr. Eva Zopf, emphasised the study’s significance:

"These unique findings from our multinational PREFERABLE-EFFECT study are particularly important for healthcare providers, policymakers, and insurers. They demonstrate that supervised exercise for patients with metastatic breast cancer is not only beneficial in improving quality of life and reducing treatment-related side effects but also reduces healthcare costs."

The study revealed cost-effectiveness benefits of the nine-month supervised exercise program compared to general activity advice. Cost savings were achieved through reductions in home care, day treatments, hospital admissions, and productivity losses.&nbsp; Notably, 44% of participants in the study were in paid employment, and the exercise group demonstrated lower productivity losses due to reduced absenteeism and presenteeism compared to the control group. Group-based programs delivered the greatest savings, approximately AUD 1,998 per patient, compared to AUD 261 for individual supervision.

"By demonstrating both clinical and economic benefits, we provide a compelling case for integrating these programs into standard care practices,"&nbsp;said Dr. Zopf.

Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) welcomed the findings, emphasising the need to prioritise people living with metastatic breast cancer by addressing their unmet needs.

"For people living with metastatic breast cancer, symptom management is a critical priority,"&nbsp;said Vicki Durston, BCNA’s Director of Policy, Advocacy &amp; Support Services.&nbsp;"Managing symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and emotional distress is essential for improving quality of life. This study highlights that supportive care, like supervised exercise, needs to go beyond being recommended guidelines—it must become an integral part of clinical practice and care to address the unmet needs of people with an incurable disease."

The study underscores the urgent need for national data collection and tailored care. Recent data from New South Wales revealed a higher number of people living with metastatic breast cancer than previously estimated, yet they remain underserved in research and healthcare planning.

By demonstrating both clinical and economic benefits, including reductions in productivity losses, the&nbsp;PREFERABLE-EFFECT&nbsp;trial provides a robust foundation for integrating supervised exercise programs into standard care practices. This approach offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution to manage the growing cancer care costs, improving outcomes for patients and reducing the financial burden on healthcare systems.

If you require quotes, content, or an interview please contact:

Kellie Curtain M: 0412339690 <a href="mailto:kcurtain@bcna.org.au" target="_blank">kcurtain@bcna.org.au</a>

*Findings of unique world trial reveals economic benefits of supervised exercise program for people with incurable breast cancer.

*Incurable breast cancer costs Australian health system more than 1 billion dollars a year

*&nbsp;PREFERABLE-EFFECT trial published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology

A world-first study has revealed that two hours of supervised exercise per week significantly benefits people with metastatic breast cancer, improving quality of life while reducing healthcare costs.The&nbsp;PREFERABLE-EFFECT&nbsp;trial, involving 357 participants worldwide, including 135 Australians, is the most extensive exercise study conducted for this population. Participants completed a nine-month program of supervised aerobic, resistance, and balance exercises twice a week, compared to those following general activity advice. Participants in the supervised exercise program experienced significant improvements in quality of life, with reductions in debilitating symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and emotional distress, enabling them to lead fuller, more active lives.Metastatic breast cancer is an advanced stage of the disease where cancer has spread beyond the breast. While treatable, it remains incurable and presents unique challenges for both treatment and quality of life. As the number of individuals diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer increases, so too do the associated costs, exceeding $1 billion annually in Australia. Investing in supportive care strategies, such as supervised exercise programs, is crucial for managing the cancer burden and mitigating disease- and treatment-related side effects. These findings published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology highlight the potential of such programs to alleviate both economic and healthcare challenges related to metastatic breast cancer&nbsp;lead Australian researcher, Melbourne exercise Physiologist Dr. Eva Zopf, emphasised the study’s significance:"These unique findings from our multinational PREFERABLE-EFFECT study are particularly important for healthcare providers, policymakers, and insurers. They demonstrate that supervised exercise for patients with metastatic breast cancer is not only beneficial in improving quality of life and reducing treatment-related side effects but also reduces healthcare costs."Economic Benefits of Supervised ExerciseThe study revealed cost-effectiveness benefits of the nine-month supervised exercise program compared to general activity advice. Cost savings were achieved through reductions in home care, day treatments, hospital admissions, and productivity losses.&nbsp; Notably, 44% of participants in the study were in paid employment, and the exercise group demonstrated lower productivity losses due to reduced absenteeism and presenteeism compared to the control group. Group-based programs delivered the greatest savings, approximately AUD 1,998 per patient, compared to AUD 261 for individual supervision."By demonstrating both clinical and economic benefits, we provide a compelling case for integrating these programs into standard care practices,"&nbsp;said Dr. Zopf.Advocacy for Evidence-Based CareBreast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) welcomed the findings, emphasising the need to prioritise people living with metastatic breast cancer by addressing their unmet needs."For people living with metastatic breast cancer, symptom management is a critical priority,"&nbsp;said Vicki Durston, BCNA’s Director of Policy, Advocacy &amp; Support Services.&nbsp;"Managing symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and emotional distress is essential for improving quality of life. This study highlights that supportive care, like supervised exercise, needs to go beyond being recommended guidelines—it must become an integral part of clinical practice and care to address the unmet needs of people with an incurable disease."A Call to ActionThe study underscores the urgent need for national data collection and tailored care. Recent data from New South Wales revealed a higher number of people living with metastatic breast cancer than previously estimated, yet they remain underserved in research and healthcare planning.By demonstrating both clinical and economic benefits, including reductions in productivity losses, the&nbsp;PREFERABLE-EFFECT&nbsp;trial provides a robust foundation for integrating supervised exercise programs into standard care practices. This approach offers a sustainable and cost-effective solution to manage the growing cancer care costs, improving outcomes for patients and reducing the financial burden on healthcare systems.If you require quotes, content, or an interview please contact:Kellie Curtain M: 0412339690 <a href="mailto:kcurtain@bcna.org.au" target="_blank">kcurtain@bcna.org.au</a>Key Facts:*Findings of unique world trial reveals economic benefits of supervised exercise program for people with incurable breast cancer.*Incurable breast cancer costs Australian health system more than 1 billion dollars a year*&nbsp;PREFERABLE-EFFECT trial published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology