Be ‘breast aware’ and take up screening invites

Have you had an invite for breast screening but haven’t yet booked your appointment? Do you know how to check your breasts for symptoms of cancer?

Anyone registered with a GP as female is invited for NHS breast screening every three years between the ages of 50 and 71. 

This Breast Cancer Awareness month (October), NHS Kent and Medway Cancer Alliance is urging those aged 50 to 70, who have received an invite for breast screening, to take up the offer and make an appointment.

Screening and Immunisation Lead Dr Faiza Khan said: “Breast screening saves lives as cancers can be diagnosed and treated earlier. 

“Every year in the UK breast cancer screening saves the lives of around 1,300 women every year in the UK and around 21,000 cases of cancer are detected via this method.

“If you have been invited for breast screening but missed or did not book an appointment you can still contact your local NHS breast screening service to arrange one.”

‘breast aware’

The Cancer Alliance team is also encouraging women of all ages to be aware of their breast health and know how to check themselves for cancer symptoms.

Early Diagnosis Lead Dr Tina George said:”It is important that you look at and check your breasts regularly, even if you have just had a mammogram.

“Get to know how your breasts look and feel. You will know your body best, so talk to your doctor if something doesn’t look or feel right. 

“It may not be anything to worry about but it’s best to get checked by a professional because early diagnosis means treatments are much more likely to be effective  .

“We recommend people take a ‘TLC’ approach. TOUCH your breasts. Can you feel anything new or unusual? LOOK for changes. Does anything look different? CHECK any new or unusual changes with your GP.”