Screening services

Cancer screening can help detect cancer early, before it develops or symptoms appear.

National Bowel Cancer Screening Program

Bowel cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in Australia. In 2021, Queensland recorded 3,130 new cases of bowel cancer and 1,101 related deaths. However, if detected early, about 90% of cases can be successfully treated.  

Bowel screening involves testing people for bowel cancer even if they don’t have symptoms. The aim is to find cancers early when they are easier to treat and cure. Screening can also find polyps, which may develop into cancer over time. 

Eligibility   

Population bowel screening is recommended every 2 years for people aged 45-74.  

On 1st July 2024, the eligible screening age for the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program was lowered from 50 to 45. Eligible people aged 45 to 49 can now request access to a free screening test kit every two years. 

• Eligible people aged 45-49: You can request your first free kit to be mailed to you. 

• Eligible people aged 50-74: You will continue to receive your test kit in the mail every two years.  

Order an initial or replacement kit here or by calling 1800 627 701. 

People outside the eligible age range for population screening 

If you are not yet eligible for the program, but have symptoms, a family history, or are worried about bowel cancer, talk to your doctor. They can tell you if you should do a screening test. If you are aged between 40-44 or 75 or over, and your doctor says you need screening, you might get a free kit through Medicare. You can also buy screening kits at pharmacies or online.

Find out more information about the Bowel Screening Test and watch short videos here.

BreastScreen Australia

Breast cancer affects more Australian women than any other cancer. Early detection of breast cancer provides the best chance of treatment and survival.

If you are aged between 50-74, Cancer Council Queensland recommends you complete a free mammogram through BreastScreen Queensland every two years, in addition to being breast aware.

BreastScreen Australia invites women aged 50-74 to have free two-yearly mammogram, however women aged 40 to 49, and 75 years and over, can also attend. Their services are offered at multiple locations across Queensland, including purpose-built vehicles to reach women in rural and remote regions.

Find out more about BreastScreen Australia. To make an appointment call BreastScreen on 13 20 50.

National Cervical Screening Program

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers. The aim of the National Cervical Screening Program is to reduce the impact of cervical cancer.

Cervical screening is a simple test to check for the presence of the human papillomavirus (HPV). It does not check for, or prevent, other cancers such as ovarian or endometrial cancer

The Cervical Screening Test replaced the Pap test in 2017. It is expected that it will protect up to 30% more women. While the Pap test used to look for cell changes in the cervix, the new test looks for HPV which can lead to those cell changes. Find out more information about the Cervical Screening Test and watch short videos here.

You are eligible for the test if you:

• are aged between 25 and 74
• have ever been sexually active
• are a woman or a person with a cervix

You are eligible for your first test when you turn 25 or 2 years after your last Pap test. You will then have cervical screening every 5 years after that.

If you have unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, experience pain during sex, or have unexplained, persistent vaginal discharge, you should see your doctor, nurse or health care worker as soon as possible.

If you are due for testing, contact your healthcare provider to book an appointment. For more information about the National Cervical Screening Program call 13 15 56. If you’re not comfortable getting a cervical screening don’t worry! You can always chat to your GP about self-collection screening options.  

More information

For more information about national cancer screening programs call Cancer Council 13 11 20.

The information available on this page should not be used as a substitute for advice from a properly qualified medical professional who can advise you about your own individual medical needs. It is not intended to constitute medical advice and is provided for general information purposes only. See our disclaimer.