Breast screening rates plummet during coronavirus pandemic

According to data collected by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), the number of breast cancer screenings performed nationally during the early months of COVID-19 plummeted by an incredible 98 per cent.

"While more than 70,000 mammograms were performed in March 2020, this fell to around 1,100 in April. By comparison, in April 2018, more than 74,000 mammograms were carried out," AIHW spokesperson Richard Juckes said.

"Overall, there were around 145,000 fewer screening mammograms conducted by BreastScreen Australia in January to June 2020 compared with January to June 2018."

Despite the huge drop in national breast screening attendance, there has not been a significant reduction in the number of local women being screened, BreastScreen NSW's Greater Western branch manager Meg O'Brien said.

"The facts are that 1 in 7 women in NSW will develop breast cancer.

"We would encourage regular screening as a screening mammogram (x-ray of the breast) is the most effective way to find breast cancer early, before symptoms are noticed," Ms O'Brien said, urging women, particularly those over the age of 50, to continue with routine screenings.

"Early detection means more treatment options and a better chance of survival.

"When breast cancer is picked up early, most women will recover and can quickly get back to normal life."