Aim
Precision cancer care requires approaches that recognise individual variation in cancer risk, detection and care needs. Breast density is an important risk factor for breast cancer and influences mammographic sensitivity; however, inconsistent communication and limited access to information have created challenges for informed decision-making. This project aimed to demonstrate how consumer partnership can support the translation of emerging evidence into equitable, person-centred approaches to breast density communication and risk-informed screening.
Methods
Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) supports meaningful consumer involvement in policy, practice and research through its Seat at the Table Consumer Representative program. In response to consumer concerns and emerging evidence, BCNA prioritised breast density as an area requiring improved awareness, communication and system response. During 2025, BCNA Consumer Representatives contributed lived experience perspectives to the development of national breast density guidance for General Practitioners (GPs). Consumer input was embedded through multidisciplinary workshops, structured consultation and targeted advocacy alongside clinical and scientific expertise.
Results
Consumer perspectives contributed to the development of the first national risk-based breast screening guidance for GPs, supporting more consistent communication about breast density, cancer risk and screening considerations. The guidance integrates consumer priorities with clinical evidence to support informed conversations between individuals and healthcare professionals. This work addresses a key gap in risk communication by improving access to understandable information and supporting more personalised approaches to breast cancer prevention and early detection.
Conclusions
Breast density demonstrates the importance of incorporating individual risk factors into precision cancer prevention and screening approaches. Consumer partnership ensures that emerging evidence is translated into information and care pathways that are meaningful, accessible and responsive to community needs. Embedding lived experience within the development of risk-based guidance provides a model for advancing precision cancer care through collaboration between consumers, clinicians, researchers and health systems.