Record year for breast screening as women urged to book

Key points

• BreastScreen NSW has recorded almost 390,000 breast screens in the past year, its highest 12-month total on record. The health service is encouraging women to book a mammogram during Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October.
• Regional New South Wales has the highest participation in the state, with 57.8 per cent of eligible women up to date. A survey found busy schedules were a common reason for delaying a screen.
• A screen is free, takes about 20 minutes and does not need a doctor's referral. Women aged 50 to 74 are recommended to screen every two years.