BCNA responds to GP breast density guidelines.
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) welcomes today’s release of national clinical guidance to support GPs in managing and advising women with high breast density. 🩺 This new GP guidance accompanies the national move toward breast density notification, and BCNA strongly supports all BreastScreen programs informing women of their breast density as a minimum standard. Women have a right to this information, and today’s guidance provides GPs with clear, evidence-based pathways to support decision-making, risk assessment and referral to appropriate imaging where clinically indicated. ✨ Breast density is one element of breast cancer risk and must be considered alongside family history, genetics, previous breast conditions, lifestyle factors, and overall personal risk. This comprehensive guideline gives GPs the tools they need to confidently assess risk and discuss supplemental screening options with women who may require further imaging. 🫶 BCNA also welcomes the collaborative approach taken by BreastScreen Australia and acknowledges the inclusion of lived experience in shaping these guidelines. Ensuring consumer voices were part of the development process strengthens the guidance and ensures it reflects the real needs and concerns of women. 📣 We now call for strong promotion, education and dissemination of this guidance — particularly in rural and regional communities — to ensure equity of access to information and screening options for all women, regardless of where they live. BCNA will continue to advocate for clear communication, consistent national practice, and equitable access to screening and follow-up imaging for every Australian affected by breast cancer 🗨️ Quote from Vicki Durston, Director, Policy, Advocacy & Support Services, BCNA: “We welcome these guidelines which give GPs clear direction on managing breast density and associated risk. We commend BreastScreen Australia for this comprehensive work and for embedding consumer perspectives. We now need strong national promotion so GPs can easily access this guidance, and we urge states that have not prioritised breast density notification to act to prevent widening inequities.” 🗨️ Quote from BCNA Consumer Representative, Krysty Sullivan: “My cancer was hidden by dense breast tissue, and I know how dangerous that can be. Mammograms are essential for all women over 40, but women with dense breasts may need additional screening. These new GP guidelines are a significant step to help women understand their risks and access extra screening that could save their lives. I’m proud to have been one of the BCNA Consumer Representatives working alongside experts to help shape them, but cost and access will still hold too many women back. Early detection shouldn’t depend on where you live or what you can afford. My cancer was found late; these guidelines can help ensure other women find theirs sooner. We urgently need the states and territories that are not yet reporting breast density to start.”🚌 Have you seen our latest awareness campaign bringing a bright splash of colour to the streets of Melbourne?
Together, we’ve launched two specially wrapped SkyBuses to help raise awareness about breast cancer self checking across Melbourne and beyond. The wrap features Jess Pearce, a nurse and mum who was diagnosed with breast cancer at 33, and encourages all Australians to get to know their bodies and take action if they notice any changes. Thank you to Jess for her meaningful role in helping us to spread awareness. Our CEO Kirsten Pilatti joined Kinetic CEO Michael Sewards to unveil the first bus, which will you may have already seen roaming the streets of Melbourne! 📷 If you spot a bright pink bus among your travels, snap a pic and post in the social zone here! 💗 We’re grateful to Kinetic for helping us share this message far and wide. 📖 Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gjZpUMD9Know Yourself. Feel Yourself.
Today we launch Know Yourself. Feel Yourself. 💗 Watch our campaign video Note: This campaign includes images of real bodies, shown respectfully to promote breast health awareness and body confidence This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re urging you to give your breasts more mirror time and build regular breast self-checks into your routine. Join us at the BCNA Self Breast Check Hub at North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club (Oct 9–12) For those unable to attend in person, we invite you to watch our educational video and find out more about the campaign via the link https://www.bcna.org.au/know-yourself-feel-yourself/Have you always wondered, how do I self-check?
WHEN DID YOU LAST FEEL YOURSELF? It’s a question that could change everything. HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOURSELF? Every woman’s body is unique but knowing what’s normal for you is what matters most. Early detection saves lives. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are urging you to give your breasts more mirror time and build regular breast self-checks into your routine. Our campaign has one clear goal: to empower women with the knowledge and confidence to know their normal, so they can spot what’s not. This immersive, live-site experience is designed to engage, educate and inspire. Step inside our mirrored Breast Check Booths and walk away with a new self-care skill that could save your life. We know that early detection saves lives. That is why we are determined to create a future where every woman feels encouraged, empowered, and supported to notice changes in her breasts early and act quickly. We are starting today. Meet us at the mirrors The Clubhouse | North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club 9-12 October. For those unable to attend in person, we invite you to watch our educational film here.First Carman's Fun Run in Sydney!
Carman’s Fun Run is only one month away. We’re excited to bring Carman’s Fun Run to Sydney for the very first time in 2025! Following its overwhelming success in Melbourne, Carman’s Fun Run is launching its inaugural Sydney event on Sunday 21 September 2025. In collaboration with Sole Motive and Carman’s Kitchen, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable, pink-filled day at Metcalfe Park, Pyrmont. Join our inclusive and supportive community who will help inspire you, your family and friends along your journey to walk, jog or run 5km, 10km or 21.1km and make it count by raising funds to help Australians affected by breast cancer. Secure your spot now and help us turn the Harbour City PINK! Find our more and register todayFinally counted: A milestone for Victorians living with metastatic breast cancer
For the first time, Victoria has counted everyone living with metastatic breast cancer in the state, marking a major step forward for visibility, recognition, and support. New data released by the Victorian Cancer Registry (VCR) estimates that 4,461 Victorians are living with metastatic breast cancer, making them visible in the health system and ensuring their needs can are not overlooked. This achievement is the result of decades of consumer-led advocacy by Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), collaboration with the Victorian Cancer Registry and Cancer Council Victoria, and the determination of women living with metastatic breast cancer who have long called for change. Read more via the link Finally counted: A milestone for Victorians living with metastatic breast cancerEvery story counts
3,863 Queenslanders living with metastatic breast cancer have been counted, ending years of invisibility for this community and making sure they are seen and recognised in the health system for the first time. When we recognise the real people behind the data, we can create positive change for all, and help shape better care, support and research for Australians affected by breast cancer. Now is the time for other state and territories to act, and make sure every Australian living with metastatic breast cancer is seen, heard, and counted. Read more via the link Landmark step for women with metastatic breast cancer in QueenslandFriday Update - 6th June 2025
Hi everyone, Welcome to your Friday Update from BCNA's Online Network! As we wrap up May, we're excited to share the latest highlights and activity that have shaped our community last month. From the inspiring 25th anniversary of the Pink Bun campaign to powerful advocacy efforts and volunteer celebrations, May has been a month of connection and support. Let’s take a look at what’s been happening across the BCNA network 🌸 Pink Bun Campaign – 25 Years of Support May marked the 25th anniversary of the Pink Bun campaign, a long-standing partnership between Bakers Delight and BCNA. From 1 to 21 May, bakeries across Australia turned pink to raise funds and awareness for Australians affected by breast cancer. Highlights included: 100% of Fun Bun sales donated to BCNA. Beanies and tote bags sold to support the cause. Pink Bun Parties hosted by schools, workplaces, and community groups. Over $2.4 million raised this year and still counting! You can watch BCNA's CEO Kirsten reflect on the success of the campaign via the link Thank you from the bottom of our hearts! 🧡 National Volunteer Week BCNA celebrated National Volunteer Week by recognising the incredible contributions of its volunteers. Their dedication helps BCNA provide vital support and resources to those affected by breast cancer. 📢Advocacy and Awareness BCNA have been highlighting concerns about women being denied knowledge of their increased breast cancer risk, advocating for better access to genetic information and screening. We welcome BreastScreen Australia’s new position statement says every woman should be told her breast density because it affects both your breast cancer risk and how easily it can be detected. Some states are leading the way, but others are still catching up. Every woman deserves to know her risk and have access to support, no matter where she lives. You can read via the link Australian women denied knowledge of their increased breast cancer risk 🤝BCNA Celebrating partnerships BCNA proudly celebrates 20 years of partnership with Sussan, one of our most dedicated Major Partners. Since 2005, Sussan has raised over $3.3 million to support BCNA’s vital services and resources for Australians affected by breast cancer We share a vision to ensure every Australian diagnosed with breast cancer receives the very best care and support. Together, we’ve celebrated many achievements and milestones, paving the way for a better breast cancer experience for all Australians – no matter where they live. State of the Nation Report: Sussan's funding of the State of the Nation report has driven significant policy changes and improvements in services for people diagnosed with breast cancer. This report was the largest of its kind and armed BCNA with the information needed to identify eight priorities for urgent action and to influence the necessary change in the healthcare system to address them. Looking ahead, Sussan are focussed on supporting BCNA’s work around risk-based and individualised screening processes, ensuring the 15,000+ Australian currently living with metastatic breast cancer are visible and counted, and enhancing BCNA's digital experience for those affected. Read more about this incredible partnership via the link https://www.bcna.org.au/about-us/our-partners/ 📺 Did you catch Compass episode, “The Breast Decision,” on ABC Australia? We’re so grateful for this powerful episode, which follows Lauren’s decision to stay flat after her breast cancer diagnosis and mastectomy, and how her family navigated learning they carry the BRCA2 gene. The episode demonstrates the importance of informed decision-making and feeling empowered, whether you choose to stay flat or have a reconstruction after mastectomy. This is essential viewing for anyone navigating breast cancer, BRCA decisions, or supporting a loved one. Watch now on Compass Series 39 The Breast Decision 🎉 Event Spotlight: REMINDER Carman's Fun Run is coming to Sydney in 2025! Carman's Fun Run SYDNEY 2025! REMINDER Carman's Fun Run is coming to Sydney in 2025! Join us on Sunday 21 September as Metcalfe Park, Pyrmont, turns pink as our partners at @carmanskitchen and @solemotive bring this fantastic event to a brand-new city. Whatever your speed, we have an option for you. Choose to join our 5km, 10km or half-marathon run, or gather your friends and family for the 5km Pink Lady Walk. If you register now, you’re taking advantage of the EARLY BIRD RATE! Be quick because this discount stops 29 April 2025. Click on the link to find out how to register Register Here 👉 Let us know what you liked, what you'd love to see more of, or just say hello! Take care and keep the conversations going! @BCNA_Mod TeamPink Bun is back!
Pink Bun is back! From today to 21 May 2025, at Bakers Delight bakeries across the country have turned pink to show their support for Australians affected by breast cancer Pink Bun 2025! Buy a Fun Bun, or even better, a 6 pack! 100% of sales go directly to BCNA and they're available at all Bakers Delight bakeries from 1 to 21 May. 🔗Find out how to get involved and find your nearest bakery via the link Support the Pink Bun Campaign 2025 You can also check out the broadcast on Channel 9's Today show earlier today Today Show Channel 9Australian women denied knowledge of their increased breast cancer risk
Approximately 10% of women have high breast density. At this point in time, thousands of Australian women are being denied important information about their breast health which could empower them to better understand and manage their risk of breast cancer. BCNA’s Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services, Vicki Durston, says Australia’s approach to population-based screening is not keeping pace with growing evidence that supports routine reporting of breast density. This due to the absence of national reporting standards and a lack of software in publicly funded screening services that can effectively measure breast density. “Every woman has the right to know and understand her breast cancer risk through standardised breast density reporting,” she says. “For those identified as high-risk or with high breast density, it is essential that clear options and pathways are available to support early detection and proactive risk management.” Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) is currently advocating for a unified national approach to reporting breast density through Australia's national population-based breast screening program – BreastScreen. Mammography images showing the difference between spotting cancer in a fatty breast (top) vs dense breast (bottom). It's like "spotting a snowman in a snow storm". You can read BCNA's media release via the link Australian women denied knowledge of their increased breast cancer risk Read ABC's feature piece on our advocacy efforts: Mandatory breast density reporting
