BreastScreen Queensland is back in Tin Can Bay

The BreastScreen mobile service is back at Lions Park Tin Can Bay from 21 March to 8 April 2022, and local women 40 years and over are encouraged to book a potentially life-saving breast screen.

It is exactly two years since COVID caused the first disruptions to all our lives, including the mobile breast screening service to Tin Can Bay being delayed until May in 2020.

Medical Director of BreastScreen Queensland Sunshine Coast, Dr Alison Roper, wants to reassure those women who had a breast screen in May or June 2020 that they will be invited to have their two-yearly breast screen when the bus arrives in Tin Can Bay at the end of March.

Dr Roper said: “While the recommended time between breast screens is two years, there is no problem in coming one or two months early. It is important not to delay having a breast screen, as early detection increases treatment options and saves lives.”

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women, with one in seven Queensland women diagnosed in their lifetime. A breast screen can detect cancer early, before a woman or her doctor can feel anything, and regular breast screening is the most effective way to reduce deaths from breast cancer.

Women aged 50-74 years are particularly encouraged to have a free breast screen every two years.

Women aged 40-49 and those over 75 can also attend this free service.

“Making a potentially life-saving breast screening appointment is simple, just pick up the phone and call 13 20 50 or book online at breastscreen.qld.gov.au,” Dr Roper said.

“Our female staff are very experienced and understand the needs, fears and concerns of other women.”

Women who are unable to attend the mobile van while it’s visiting Tin Can Bay, can book an appointment at the BreastScreen service located at Goldfields Plaza in Gympie. This service operates Mondays, Tuesdays and one Saturday each month.

Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service