October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to acknowledge the critical importance of early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment of breast cancer. Behind every test result that informs a patient’s care plan is the critical work of laboratories, where precision testing may be the difference between life and death.
In Australia, breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer, with over 21,000 new cases each year, including around 200 men. While awareness campaigns highlight the need for regular screening, the accuracy and trustworthiness of laboratory testing underpin every diagnosis and treatment decision. This is where NATA-accredited laboratories play a vital role.
Over 100 labs across the country hold accreditation for anatomical pathology and genetic testing of breast tissue. These accreditations are not just a badge of quality, they represent rigorous third-party assessment, adherence to international standards, and verification that staff, processes, and equipment consistently deliver reliable results. For patients and clinicians, this means confidence that treatment decisions are based on sound, dependable scientific data.
Modern approaches to breast cancer care often involve targeted therapies, which require companion diagnostic testing. These in vitro tests guide clinicians in selecting treatments tailored to a patient’s genetic profile, increasing the likelihood of success while reducing unnecessary side effects. Accreditation ensures that laboratories performing these tests meet exacting standards, providing reassurance that results are both accurate and actionable.
Beyond individual patient care, accredited laboratories also contribute to broader research efforts. By maintaining high-quality data and reproducible results, these labs support clinical trials, population health studies, and innovations in personalised medicine. In essence, NATA accreditation elevates the standard of care across the healthcare system, benefiting both current patients and future advancements in breast cancer treatment.
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to recognise that the fight against breast cancer is not only fought in hospitals and clinics, but also in the labs that deliver precise, trustworthy information. Every result issued by a NATA-accredited facility is part of a chain of care that empowers clinicians, safeguards patients, and strengthens confidence in the healthcare system.
For those interested in learning more about the accredited services available to support breast cancer diagnosis and treatment, NATA provides a comprehensive directory of laboratories and testing services across Australia. View here.