Australians urged not to avoid cancer screening tests

Researchers are warning COVID-19 may have a deadly impact on the population, with reports of fewer screenings for the most common cancers.

Nurse examining patient with medical equipment. Female healthcare worker is assisting woman during mammogram test. Source: Getty

A new Cancer Australia report has revealed breast imaging decreased by more than a third in the months of March and April.

Colorectal investigations in May were around half of those performed in March.

Bowel cancer experts say almost all cases could be successfully treated but around half aren't caught early enough.

All women aged 50 to 74 are encouraged to get a free mammogram every 2 years.

men and women over 45 are recommended to have faecal testing every 2 years.

After a positive test, a colonoscopy should be scheduled within 30 days.

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