WOMEN are putting their lives at risk by not having their breasts checked.
Only half the women eligible for free screening tests take advantage of them, according to new research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
Estimates show one in eight Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 85, while 42 women are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer each day this year.
The screenings are vital in detecting cancers at an early stage when better treatment options are available.
More Australian women are surviving breast cancer as death rates continue to plummet.
When BreastScreen Australia began in 1991, the breast cancer death rate was 68 per 100,000 women aged between 50 and 69. In 2012, that rate had fallen to 42 per 100,000 women.
This month is a timely reminder to schedule a screening as October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
There are many ways to take part in the month, including donating on Pink Ribbon Day on October 27.
The annual Cancer Council fundraiser helps fund research into women's cancers.
It is estimated this year in Australia, 18,715 women will be diagnosed with breast or gynaecological cancer.
For more information or to donate - www.pinkribbon.com.au
Tips on being breast aware from Breast Cancer Aware WA