How a routine 'daunting' scan saved Jodi's life – and could save yours too

It was at her GP’s suggestion that Jodi Shepherd decided to book an appointment with BreastScreen ACT for a mammogram.

It was a routine check which turned up something the Canberra local didn’t expect.

“They detected an invasive ductal carcinoma, which is a form of breast cancer,” Ms Shepherd said.

“I had no family history of breast cancer and I had no symptoms, so the only way my breast cancer was detected was through BreastScreen ACT and their experienced technicians.”

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare’s (AIHW), the BreastScreen program detected 297 cases of invasive breast cancers during 2020 in the ACT.

Almost two-thirds of these (186) were classified as ‘small’, measuring less than 15 millimetres in diameter.

Canberra’s breast screening program has received a boost with staggered replacement of three ageing mammography machines at community health centres.

The third and final new machine was installed at the Civic clinic on Thursday (6 July), rounding out the $1.035 million government commitment to replace all the machines. The other two were installed at Belconnen and Phillip over the past 12 months.

Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith said the modernisation of the equipment would allow for more comfortable appointments for patients and even better health outcomes, as the machines provided higher-quality images and were easier to use.

“New features, such as curved paddles that the breast lays in between, improve the level of comfort and create a more pleasant experience for patients,” she said.

“They also allow for film to be taken in less than four seconds, meaning the process is even quicker than the older machines.”

BreastScreen ACT registered nurse Julie Solway said having the new machine was very exciting because it meant they could continue helping women detect breast cancer earlier.

“Screening mammograms are for people without any signs and symptoms of breast cancer. We are looking to find breast cancers early, well before they can be seen or felt,” she said.

“We also investigate any areas of interest that are detected on their mammogram. This means people may be asked to come back for further assessment once their mammogram has been reviewed.”

For women feeling apprehensive about receiving a breast cancer screening, Ms Shepherd offered this advice:

“It’s always daunting, the unknown, but the clinicians are very experienced and it’s a walk in the park, really, it doesn’t take long and it doesn’t hurt, so I would suggest don’t delay,” she said.

“I do believe early detection can save lives.”

Free screening mammograms are available to eligible Canberra women over the age of 40 years, with those aged 50 to 74 years encouraged to have one every two years.

The BreastScreen program is a free service and does not require a referral from your GP.

Call BreastScreen ACT on 13 20 50 between 8:30 am and 5 pm, Monday to Friday, to book an appointment.