Cancer Screening
- Dipti Mondal
- Jul 11
- 3 min read
Supporting Early Detection for Better Health Outcomes
Cancer Screening at Flagstone Family Practice
Cancer screening plays an important role in detecting certain cancers before symptoms appear, when treatment is often simpler and more successful. In some cases, screening can even identify pre-cancerous changes, helping to prevent cancer from developing.
At Flagstone Family Practice, our experienced GPs provide personalised cancer screening advice based on your age, family history, lifestyle, and individual risk factors. We support eligible patients through Australia's national cancer screening programs and provide referrals for further assessment when required.
Why Cancer Screening Matters
Regular screening can help:
Detect cancer before symptoms develop.
Improve treatment success and recovery.
Identify pre-cancerous changes early.
Reduce the risk of advanced disease.
Give you greater peace of mind through proactive healthcare.
RESOURCES
Resource | Description | Link |
BreastScreen Queensland | Official BreastScreen Queensland website with information on free breast screening services. | |
Should I Screen? | Learn who should have regular breast screening and when to start. | |
Who Can Have a Breast Screen? | Eligibility information for BreastScreen Queensland services. | |
A Short Guide to Breast Screening | Downloadable guide explaining the breast screening process and what to expect. | |
Client Support | Information about accessibility, interpreters, and support services available during screening. | |
Video: Having a Breast Screen | Watch what happens during a BreastScreen appointment. | |
Video: Follow-up Tests | Learn what to expect if additional assessment or follow-up tests are required. | |
Get Checked – Women | Cancer Council Queensland guide to cancer screening and early detection for women. | |
Lifestyle Factsheet: Breast Awareness | Information on breast awareness |
National Cancer Screening Programs in Australia
Australia offers evidence-based screening programs for several common cancers to support early detection and improve health outcomes.
Bowel Cancer Screening
The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program provides free home screening kits to eligible Australians aged 50–74 years.
The simple home test checks for tiny traces of blood in the bowel that may not be visible. While the test cannot diagnose bowel cancer, it helps identify people who may need further investigation, such as a colonoscopy.
Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes, with more than 90% of bowel cancers successfully treated when detected early.
Breast Cancer Screening
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women.
Screening mammograms can detect breast cancer before it can be seen or felt, increasing the likelihood of successful treatment.
BreastScreen Australia recommends women aged 50–74 years have a free screening mammogram every two years. Women aged 40–49 years and those over 75 years can also access screening after discussing their individual needs.
Cervical Cancer Screening
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers through regular screening.
The Cervical Screening Test checks for Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the virus responsible for almost all cervical cancers. Detecting HPV early allows abnormal cell changes to be treated before cancer develops.
Most eligible women and people with a cervix should have a Cervical Screening Test every five years, or as recommended by their healthcare provider.
Patients can choose between:
Self-collected HPV testing (where suitable)
Clinician-collected Cervical Screening Test
Both methods are safe, accurate, and effective.
Is Cancer Screening Right for You?
Cancer screening may be recommended if you:
Are eligible under the Australian screening programs
Have a family history of cancer
Have additional lifestyle or medical risk factors
Have previously had abnormal screening results
Want personalised advice about cancer prevention
Your GP can help determine which screening tests are appropriate for you.
How Flagstone Family Practice Can Help
Our experienced GPs provide comprehensive support throughout your cancer screening journey.
Our services include:
Personalised cancer risk assessments
Advice on appropriate screening based on age and risk factors
Bowel, breast, and cervical screening guidance
Cervical Screening Tests, including self-collection options where appropriate
Referrals for colonoscopy, mammography, imaging, or specialist assessment when required
Preventive health advice and ongoing follow-up care
Take Charge of Your Health
Book an appointment at Flagstone Family Practice to discuss the cancer screening options that are right for you and take a proactive step towards protecting your long-term health.
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