Research

Research

We support collaboration with researchers and share our data for research that delivers better health outcomes for the community.

We contribute to research by:

  • Helping to define research questions
  • Sharing our data
  • Collaborating on research projects and
  • Publications
  • Applying research outcomes to our program

BreastScreen Victoria has over 30 years of longitudinal data collected against national standards and frameworks, which means our data is a rich source of information.  

De-identified data can be accessed to support research aimed at improving health outcomes, and where the research is in the interest of current and future clients and is aligned with BreastScreen Victoria's Research Framework.

Research Framework

Our Research Framework aims to maximise the benefit of research on our population-based breast cancer screening program which aims to reduce the impact of breast cancer and save lives through early detection. 

Then Research Framework details the research enablers, principles and priorities that align with the desired outcomes of our program. It is a tool for researchers, research institutions, funding bodies and partners to see the areas of greatest need and interest to BSV.

Download the BreastScreen Victoria Research Framework

Data access for researchers

Lifepool

Lifepool is a unique resource for research that combines health and lifestyle information, mammographic density data and health linkage data from over 55,000 women to date. Lifepool also collects DNA from a subset of participants, as well as tumour samples from women diagnosed with breast cancer.

Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, in partnership with BreastScreen Victoria, Melbourne Health and the University of Melbourne established Lifepool. This population cohort supports research that focuses on better understanding factors contributing to breast cancer risk. Over 90 per cent of participants are clients of BreastScreen Victoria.

Each Lifepool participant has provided informed consent for the use of their data, including BreastScreen Victoria data, for research into breast cancer and other women’s health issues.

Researchers are encouraged to explore access to the Lifepool cohort before contacting BreastScreen Victoria. Further information is available on the Lifepool website.

 

How to access data outside of Lifepool

If the needs of your study cannot be met by Lifepool, click here to find out more about accessing BreastScreen Victoria data for your research.

Data governance and privacy

The Improving Cancer Outcomes Act 2014 outlines that the Secretary of the Victorian Department of Health is the custodian of the data collected through the BreastScreen Victoria program. The Secretary delegates a range of powers about the use of this data to BreastScreen Victoria's CEO. We take this responsibility very seriously and want to ensure this valuable data can assist better breast cancer outcomes for all.
BreastScreen Victoria is committed to protecting our clients' privacy. We are required by law to protect personal information and comply with the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic)Privacy Act 1988 (Cth)Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic) and other relevant legislation relating to confidentiality and privacy. View our privacy policy here.