As women across the Western Plains set their intentions for the year ahead, local health professionals are encouraging breast screening to be part of those New Year resolutions.

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian women, with over 75 per cent of cases occurring in women aged over 50.

According to research, around 71 per cent of Australians plan to set a resolution for 2026, with women more likely than men to make goals at the start of the year.

Health always features strongly, with 32 per cent aiming to improve fitness, 30 per cent planning to eat healthier, and 25 per cent hoping to lose weight.

While many resolutions focus on lifestyle change, preventive health checks - including breast screening - are just as important.

Regular screening is proven to detect cancer earlier, when treatment is most effective.

Mobile clinics returning to the region

For women living in regional and remote communities, access to screening can be a challenge which is why the free mobile clinics operated by BreastScreen NSW continue to play a crucial role across the Western Plains.

After a short Christmas break, the BreastScreen clinic will be operating in Narromine and Trangie over the next two weeks.

From Monday 5 to Weds 7 January, the mobile van will be located at the Council carpark at 124 Dandaloo Street, Narromine.

It will then move to next to Trangie Memorial Hall, 72 Dandaloo Street, for Friday 9, Monday 12 and Tues 13 January.

Bookings can be made by calling 13 20 50 or visiting breastscreen.nsw.gov.au

Start the year off right and book a breast screen - it's free, takes around 20 minutes and doesn't require a doctor's referral.

Further mobile clinics are scheduled to visit several other Western Plains communities throughout 2026.

An interactive map on the Breastscreen NSW website clearly shows the times and locations that are planned.

BreastScreen NSW recommends:

• Women aged 50–74 have a free breast screen every two years, as this group has the highest risk
• Women in their 40s are eligible to attend and encouraged to speak with their GP about personal risk
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are recommended to start screening from age 40
• Women aged 75 and over can continue screening by booking directly with BreastScreen NSW.

Women under 40 are not eligible for routine screening, as breast screening is less effective in younger women because of higher breast density.

Anyone with symptoms or concerns, including family history, should consult their doctor.