'Help Us, Help you' - Take up your breast screening invite!
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in the UK, and the chance of getting breast cancer increases as you get older. Regular breast screening is one of the best ways to spot a cancer that is too small to feel or see yourself – it saves around 1,300 lives each year in the UK.
NHS England has launched its first-ever awareness campaign to highlight the benefits of screening and encourage more women to make the most of regular mammograms, as figures show more than four in ten (46.3%) invited for the first time don’t act on their invitation.
NHS England estimates suggest that if screening attendance could be improved to 80% of those eligible next year (2025/26), nearly a million more women (around 925,000) could be screened, compared to 2022/23 – with over 7,500 additional breast cancers detected at an earlier stage, when they are more treatable.
A local resident from Slough, who was diagnosed with breast cancer despite having no symptoms is urging others to take up the offer of free NHS breast screening when invited. Mrs Carter, aged 60, attended many breast screenings since turning 50, but her most recent screening in 2023 ended up saving her life.
The mother of one from Slough said: “I am so grateful that the screening detected my cancer early, and I was able to start treatment immediately.
“So, when your letter arrives, please don’t ignore it or put it away for later. Book your appointment as a few minutes of discomfort could save your life.
She added: “It may seem daunting but, in my experience, the staff do this every day, and they have always made me feel relaxed and at ease and before you know it, it’s over.”
Theresa has made a full recovery following her treatment and is so grateful that her breast screening detected the cancer at a stage when it was easiest to treat.
Daghni Rajasingam, a NHSE Medical Director in the South East, said: “Even if you’ve had a recent mammogram, it’s important to continue checking your breasts regularly.
“Breast screening plays a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer, often identifying cancers before any visible or palpable changes occur. This early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival so I would encourage all eligible women to take up the offer when invited.”
Anyone registered with a GP as a female aged from 50 up to their 71st birthday will be invited for NHS breast screening every 3 years. You'll automatically get your first invitation letter for breast screening in the post between the ages of 50 and 53. The process is designed to be as comfortable as possible, with mammographers trained to support and reassure women throughout their appointment.
For those who have missed or declined their screening appointment, it is never too late. Women can contact their local NHS breast screening service to arrange an appointment, even if their last invitation was weeks, months, or years ago.
For more information about NHS breast screening services or to book an appointment, please visit the NHS website or contact your local NHS breast screening service.