Cancer Screening and Prevention

Cancer is now the leading cause of disease burden in Australia, surpassing cardiovascular disease. On average, one in two men and one in three women will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime (Cancer Institute NSW). Improving cancer screening participation and reducing modifiable risk factors are key public health priorities.

The role of primary healthcare

Primary healthcare clinicians are essential in all national cancer screening programs. MPHN works alongside general practice and other healthcare stakeholders to:

  • Increase screening rates

  • Reduce the prevalence of cancer risk factors

  • Integrate cancer-focused strategies into chronic disease management, quality improvement, practice systems, and accreditation processes.

Focus areas

MPHN supports improved participation in the four national cancer screening programs including cervical cancer, breast cancer, bowel cancer and lung cancer.

We also support initiatives for skin cancer prevention and smoking cessation, aligning with national strategies to reduce cancer incidence across the region.

HealthPathways screening links

Cancer screening
Prostate cancer screening
Breast cancer screening
Cervical screening
Lung cancer screening
Bowel cancer screening

Resources and important links

Further cancer screening resources

Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
Cancer Overview
Cancer Screening Resources

Cancer Council Australia
Main Website
For Health Professionals
Clinical Guidelines

Cancer Institute NSW
cancer.nsw.gov.au
Helping Mob Live Healthy and Prevent Cancer Toolkit


CONTACT

Georgina Maher

Primary Care Engagement Officer
georgina.maher@mphn.org.au
02 69 317 822

Last updated 24/06/2025