Breast cancer screening and diagnosis are evolving rapidly, with new evidence on breast density, imaging technologies, and screening pathways shaping everyday clinical decisions.

In this practical session, a specialist breast radiologist and breast surgeon will guide GPs and primary care clinicians through what matters most in real-world practice—how breast density affects screening and cancer detection, how to choose the right imaging test for the right patient, and how to manage common breast symptoms before referral.

Attendees will leave with clear, up-to-date guidance aligned with Australian screening recommendations to support confident decision-making in primary care and streamline the pathway from screening to diagnosis.

Presenters:

Dr Linda Borella

Dr Davendra Segara.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand breast density—how it is measured, why it matters for cancer detection and risk, and how to apply new density notification guidance within Australian screening programs.
• Select the most appropriate breast imaging test for screening and diagnosis (mammography, ultrasound, Breast MRI (full and Abbreviated protocols) and Contrast Enhanced Mammogram / CEM) based on patient risk, breast density, and current Australian screening recommendations.
• Recognise key breast symptoms and signs that require further investigation and understand the appropriate initial imaging work-up in primary care.
• Identify when and how to refer to a breast surgeon, including what information and imaging optimises timely diagnosis and patient care.

Target audience: GPs and practice nurses