The report, compiled by Australian and overseas health experts, highlighted the fact that there is minimal impact of screening women aged 40-45 and 75 and over. Instead, they propose limiting the availability of the service to women aged 45-75, particularly targeting those in the 50-69 group, who are considered to be at greatest risk and best served by early detection.

BreastScreen Australia was first set up in 1991, with the aim of screening at least 70% of women in the 50-69 group, but the report shows that in practice the level is closer to 56%. This is partly due to capacity constraints, often as a result of younger women seeking screening. These women generally react to breast cancer diagnoses of young public figures such as Kylie Minogue and Belinda Emmett. For women aged below 45, screening can actually lead to harm with a higher rate of invasive procedures without cancer present. For those over 75 there is limited evidence to show a benefit in mortality reduction.

Additionally, the report suggest refusing services to women with a high risk or symptoms of breast cancer, who would be directed to specialist help instead. When there are symptoms of breast cancer, Medicare rebates are available. However women outside of these groups, while able to obtain screening privately, will have to pay the full price.

The report recommends women aged 45-49 and 70-74 continue to be screened biennially, and women in the highest-risk 50-69 group be screened annually.

* Original article appeared in The Australian on 7 September 2009 by Sean Parnell