The team at BreastScreen Sydney West hosted a successful Aboriginal Screening Day at Mt Druitt Hospital on Thursday, 31 July 2025, in collaboration with the Aboriginal Health Hub.
The event aimed to increase participation in breast screening among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, delivering care in a culturally safe and welcoming environment.
Lorenda and Lynette both spoke about the importance of prioritising their health amid busy lives.
Lorenda, who booked her appointment during the NAIDOC event, shared, “I knew I was due. It’s one of those things you just have to do — and I’m glad I did.”
Lynette is a regular screener.
“Nine times out of ten, we’re busy looking after everyone else and forget to take care of ourselves. Coming here today was a reminder that looking after my own health matters too,” Lynette said.
The screening environment is adorned with Aboriginal artwork and culturally sensitive practices, ensuring privacy, respect, and comfort for all clients.
Many women took time to yarn with staff and each other, reinforcing community connection.
For Belinda Campbell, attending BreastScreen NSW for the first time, the experience was surprisingly positive.
“This experience was so much better than my last mammogram, which I had done privately years ago,” Belinda said.
“I’ll definitely be encouraging others – it’s really not as bad as I thought,” Belinda said.
As a token of appreciation, each woman screened on the day was gifted a choice of a water bottle, scarf, or shawl after completing their mammogram.
The event was a powerful example of how culturally respectful care and community engagement can boost early detection and improve health outcomes.
Aboriginal women are encouraged to have a regular breast screen from the age of 40. Please call 13 20 50 to make an appointment or go to www.breastscreen.nsw.gov.au
About Breast Screening:
BreastScreen NSW recommends Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women aged 40–74 have a breast screen every two years.*
BreastScreen NSW aims to provide a culturally safe place of care and is working with Aboriginal communities to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal women in NSW.
Having a regular breast screen is part of healthy living. It’s important to screen even when you are healthy.
Screening is free and an appointment takes just 20 minutes.
Book your free breast screen today or talk to your doctor or health worker if you would like help. We can also arrange a group booking for you with friends and family.
*Evidence shows that Aboriginal women in NSW with breast cancer were younger and more likely to have more advanced cancer at diagnosis than non-Aboriginal women.