Kate Browne, a resident of Australia, recently discovered she had stage three breast cancer during a routine medical scan unrelated to any breast examination.

Her diagnosis, made at an age when routine screening for breast cancer typically begins at 50, has highlighted significant challenges in Australia's breast cancer diagnosis system.

Browne's situation raises critical questions about why women, particularly those under 50 without family histories or symptoms, may not receive adequate screening.

According to a recent study conducted by The University of Sydney, The University of Queensland, and Alberta Health Services in Canada, Australia now has some of the highest rates of breast cancer diagnoses globally.

The comprehensive study analyzed global breast cancer data from 185 countries, revealing that one in 20 women worldwide will be diagnosed with breast cancer, while an estimated one in 70 women may die from the disease over their lifetimes.

While Australian women are more frequently diagnosed with breast cancer than their international counterparts, the study indicates that mortality rates are comparatively low.

Breast cancer mortality rates in Australia have decreased by approximately 2.1 percent annually, aligning with the World Health Organization's Global Breast Cancer Initiative targets aimed at a 2.5 percent reduction.

Only seven countries, including Malta, Denmark, and Switzerland, are currently on track to meet these WHO goals, with broader trends indicating reductions in mortality rates across 30 nations.

The incidence of breast cancer is often higher in wealthier countries, which factors into Australia's elevated diagnosis statistics.

An ageing population, which is one of the primary risk factors for breast cancer, contributes significantly to these figures.

Professor Nehmat Houssami, a public health expert involved in the study, noted the influence of lifestyle factors, like increased alcohol consumption and sedentary routines, on Australia’s high breast cancer rates.

Professor Adrian Esterman from the University of South Australia pointed out that Australia's effective breast cancer screening programs contribute to its high incidence rates; these programs are known for detecting early-stage malignancies, which can significantly improve survival outcomes.

Despite these advancements in early detection and treatment, concerns remain regarding the robustness of screening protocols.

Browne has highlighted instances of missed diagnoses, including a friend whose tumor was undetected during a mammogram and another friend whose unusual breast skin condition was dismissed by a doctor, only to later be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Such cases underscore the potential for lapses within the diagnostic system.

In Australia, routine mammograms are recommended for women aged 50 to 74, with women aged 40 to 49 and over 74 also eligible for screenings, yet they do not receive automatic invitations.

Browne has expressed concern over the lack of tracking for breast density in screenings, acknowledging that women with dense breast tissue may require alternative imaging, like ultrasounds, for accurate detection.

Professor Houssami noted ongoing reviews of the breast cancer screening age guidelines but reiterated that breast cancer remains uncommon in women under 40, except for those with a genetic predisposition.

She acknowledged Australia's advanced diagnostic capabilities while asserting the need for further preventative research.

In addition to challenges during detection and diagnosis, post-treatment support also requires attention.

Browne, now five years in remission, conducted a survey of 400 women who had undergone breast cancer treatment, revealing that a significant number reported a lack of post-treatment support and unexpected financial burdens, including costs for mental health services and income loss.

The survey also indicated that divorce or separation following a breast cancer diagnosis was not uncommon, highlighting broader social and emotional consequences of the disease.

Through her experiences and survey findings, Browne emphasizes the need for renewed focus on early detection and comprehensive support for women navigating the aftermath of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.