BreastScreen Queensland and West Moreton Health have officially opened a new screening service at Yamanto Central shopping centre, offering eligible women improved access to an early detection and valuable preventative health service.

Evidence shows that women aged 50-74 benefit most from screening, yet participation rates for this cohort have declined in West Moreton from 53.4 per cent to 52.1 per cent since 2019–2020. The state average for screening participation among this age group is 52.3 per cent.

Greater access to the new service is expected to improve participation in the screening program. The welcoming satellite site is located on the main level of Yamanto Central, next to Platypus Shoes and opposite The Coffee Club. 

The service offers free breast screens for women aged 40 and over who have not noticed any changes to their breasts.  

The BreastScreen Queensland Ipswich service will also continue to offer screening and assessment services at the Ipswich Health Plaza and via mobile screening vans covering the broader West Moreton region.

Acting Assistant Director of Nursing for Preventative Services at West Moreton Health, Shannon Wallis, said the clinic's shopfront would be a visual reminder for women to book their next appointment.

"We know that one in seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, but we also know that finding breast cancer early increases treatment options," Ms Wallis said.

"A breast screen every two years not only provides peace of mind but could save your life.

"I thank the Yamanto Central management for their support and allowing us to open this welcoming service at such a convenient site."

Appointments are now available. Book online at www.breastscreen.qld.gov.au or phone 13 20 50. 

More information

More information on screening – including the signs, symptoms and risk factors for breast cancer – can be found here: Should I screen? | BreastScreen Queensland