The State Manager of Cancer Screening and Control Services, Gail Ward, today reassured Tasmanian women that an issue that sparked an investigation into South Australian BreastScreen detection rates had not been identified as a problem in Tasmania.

Ms Ward said that BreastScreen South Australia had this afternoon announced that it was investigating a decrease in its detections of small cancers, including an audit of more than 50, 000 images.

"While I understand this may cause some Tasmanian women to feel anxious, I want to reassure them that the BreastScreen Tasmania Service has not had a significant decrease in the number of small cancers detected.

"Tasmania's detection rates are reviewed and evaluated regularly and the Service continues to diagnose the expected number of breast cancers.  There has been no significant change in the cancer detection rate as has occurred in South Australia.

"Screening mammography continues to save thousands of women's lives every year, but like every medical test, it will never be 100 per cent perfect.

"As always the key message for women is to remain vigilant.  If you notice persistent changes in your breasts, even after a clear mammogram result, see your GP," Ms Ward said.

Ms Ward said that BreastScreen Tasmania will be kept informed as BreastScreen South Australia conducts its investigation.

"The cause of the decrease in South Australia is not yet clear - any number of factors may have contributed.

"Tasmanian women can remain confident in the integrity of the BreastScreen Tasmania service and continue to participate in  regular screening mammograms," Ms Ward said.

Women aged 50 to 69 are actively invited to participate in free breast screening every two years.  Women aged 40 years and older are also eligible to attend.

BreastScreen appointments can be made for the cost of a local call by phoning 13 20 50.