Bcna need to try and get funding to test young women with ultrasounds for free. I myself have just gone through my surgery and treatment at the age of 35.
There currently is no cost support for testing for women under 50.
I am aware that even women with dense breast tissue a mammogram will not pick up a tumour as well as an ultrasound. We should all have the right to free testing.
If it was more cost effective to have the scans more women would have testing and this could potentially save more lives and find cancer earlier so it can be treated quickly to reduce the risk of it spreading.
I have already emailed the prime minister and the health minister with no outcome from my statistics around young women and cancer.
Hi Jade-1989 - Thank you for raising this important issue that we hear far too many times on our Helpline. We are also sorry to hear of your own experience at a very young age and hope you have a good support network around you.
We too acknowledge that the financial impact of breast cancer and the costs associated with screening can be significant, especially for those who aren’t eligible for free breast screening programs. Where possible, we encourage speaking with their GP about referral options for bulk-billed ultrasounds, as some clinics may offer these services to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
BCNA has resources on our website that address the financial challenges of breast cancer, including tips and support options here: https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/financial-and-practical-support/
There is always work to do! You can read our recent work around Women’s right to know: BCNA responds to BMJ breast density study. BCNA will continue to prioritise reducing the financial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis. You can read more about BCNA's Policy & Advocacy via the link https://www.bcna.org.au/our-impact/policy-and-advocacy
Thankyou again for using your voice to advocate for others.
