BreastScreen NSW is Australia’s first population-based screening program to introduce cutting-edge technology to support radiologists in interpreting a select range of mammography images.
The integration of machine reading technology will ensure BreastScreen NSW can continue to deliver a world-class service, while meeting the needs of NSW’s growing population.
Successfully used in similar international population-based screening programs, BreastScreen NSW undertook a world-first study to extensively evaluate the accuracy and efficacy of this new technology.
The study showed the technology produced comparable results to the existing screening program, without compromising cancer detection rates.
At least one radiologist will continue to read every woman’s image to look for the early stages of breast cancer, with machine reading technology providing additional analysis.
The new technology will complement the expertise of radiologists.
BreastScreen Clinical Director Dr Nalini Bhola said the use of this new technology will have no impact on the breast screening experience.
“BreastScreen New South Wales is focused on supporting our expert clinical workforce with the latest technology to facilitate the interpretation of mammograms across New South Wales,” Dr Bhola said.
“The rollout of this technology was guided by our radiologists to ensure we maintain our excellent cancer detection rates and BreastScreen New South Wales can continue to deliver a world-class experience for our clients.
“We are introducing the technology in a way that will allow close monitoring, to ensure we maintain our excellent standards of clinical quality.”
For women aged 50-74, a breast screen every two years is the best way to detect breast cancer early – before it can be seen or felt. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are recommended to screen from age 40.
Early detection not only significantly increases a person’s chance of survival, it can also greatly reduce the need for invasive treatment like a mastectomy.
Any woman who has noticed a change in their breasts, like a lump, should see their doctor without delay.
For more information and to make an appointment at a local BreastScreen NSW clinic or mobile van, call 13 20 50 or book online at www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au.