It could save your life.
Cancer screening aims to find cancers early which improves treatment options and survival. In Australia, national screening programs offer free tests to those most at risk and includes four cancers: breast, cervical, bowel and lung. Screening is for people with no symptoms. If you are unsure if screening is right for you, or if you have any symptoms, talk to your doctor.
Breast Screening
Everyone (regardless of gender) has breast tissue. People assigned female at birth have a higher risk of getting breast cancer than people assigned male at birth.
The Breast Screening Program, BreastScreen, should be done every 2 years for people aged 50–74 years who are either:
• Cisgender women
• Trans women who have been on gender affirming hormone therapy for 5 or more years
• Assigned female at birth trans people who have not had top surgery. People who have had top surgery may still need screening, depending on individual risk and type of surgery.
Talk to your doctor to check what is right for you. Eligible people aged 50-74 are invited by letter, but everyone over the age of 40 years can screen for free. Call 13 20 50 to book an appointment.
Cervical Screening
Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, which is the top of the vagina and base of the uterus.
Most cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus spread through sexual contact. The HPV vaccine significantly reduces the risk of HPV causing cervical cancer but does not remove it. This is why regular screening still matters.
The Cervical Screening Program should be done for people with a cervix aged 25-74 years who have ever had any sexual contact.
Cervical screening is done at a health clinic, such as a doctor clink or family planning clinic. You can collect the sample yourself, or if you prefer, your doctor can do it. Cervical screening is recommended every 5 years.
Bowel Screening
Bowel cancer can occur in the small bowel, large bowel or rectum. The Bowel Cancer Screening Program is done through a kit sent to your home. The test is free, clean and easy. From 45-49 people are encouraged to opt into the program by calling 1800 627 701. After you’ve opted in, or from 50, you’ll get a kit in the mail every 2 years.
Bowel screening should be done every 2 years for ALL people aged 45-74 years.
Lung Screening
The Lung Cancer Screening Program targets high-risk individuals and involves getting a CT scan of the chest.
Lung screening should be done every 2 years in people aged 50-70 years who:
• Have no signs or symptoms of lung cancer
• Currently smoke or vape (or quit in the last 10 years)
• Has a history of smoking at least 30 pack years
See your doctor or healthcare provider to find out whether you’re eligible for the program based on your age and smoking history.
Checklist
1. Book an appointment with your doctor to discuss cancer screening.
Don’t forget:
• Mention any gender affirming treatments you have or are currently undergoing
• Check your clinic has noted your screening requirements based on your anatomy. This ensures you will get appropriate screening reminders.
2. Check your address is up to date with Medicare and Australian Electoral Roll as the postal address on file is where information will be sent.
3. Use the Genders, Bodies and Relationships Passport to make telling your doctor about your gender, body and relationship easier.
Copies are free for download at lgbtiqhealth.org.au/passport
