Women, let’s put our health first. Attending your breast screening appointment could save your life

Desk report: We are more than just individuals—we are a powerful community of mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends, intertwined in a shared journey of life. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to forget the importance of prioritising our health. But together, we can stand strong, support one another, and put our health first.

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the UK, and the chance of getting it increases as you get older. But here’s the good news: regular breast screening is a crucial weapon in our arsenal against this disease. It can detect cancer at an early stage—often before you can see or feel it—saving around 1,300 lives each year in the UK. This isn’t just a statistic; it can be the difference between treatment and heartbreak for families and friends.

That’s why the NHS’s latest campaign is calling on every woman to take action and attend her breast screening when invited. If you’ve received an invitation letter now is the time to prioritise yourself and encourage those around you to do the same.

Talking about cancer can be tough. A recent NHS survey revealed that 42% of South Asian women rarely discuss breast screening with those who matter most. But it’s crucial we break the silence. We owe it to ourselves and each other to share our fears and prioritise our health.

The survey found that the majority of us (70%) are concerned about potentially developing breast cancer. Despite this worry, the latest NHS data shows that around a third of those invited don’t attend screening – which increases to 46.3 per cent of those invited for the first time.

The survey also found that one in three (31%) South Asian women over 50 admitted they would put off attending ‘non-urgent’ health appointments – like breast screening,

We lead busy lives and often think health checks can wait, but early detection is key. Breast screening can find cancer long before any symptoms appear, giving you peace of mind. If any signs of cancer are found, detecting it early can make it more likely that treatment will be successful

Dr. Farzana Hussain says, “A lot of us worry about going to our breast screening because we don’t want to find out we have cancer. Most women who attend their breast screening will not have cancer, but in cases where signs of cancer are found and it’s diagnosed early, it’s more likely that treatment will be successful.

“There can also be concerns around undressing at the appointment, or perhaps needing someone to translate what’s going on for you. The specialist who does your breast screening – the mammographer – will always be female, and you can also ask if there is the option for interpreting services. The actual screening is quick and straightforward— it takes about 30 minutes. You’ll get two X-rays for each breast, and your results will arrive in the post within two weeks.”

“If your results show no sign of breast cancer, you’ll be invited in the next three years for your next screening. If further tests are needed, you’ll receive guidance on the next steps. Most who need extra tests don’t have cancer, but early detection is vital for effective treatment.”

To support this campaign, the NHS has launched a powerful film featuring everyday women sharing their breast screening stories—highlighting shared anxieties and empowering us all to make breast screening a routine part of our lives.

For those women who say they wouldn’t attend a breast screening, 21% are held back by embarrassment, while 24% believe they don’t need to go unless they have symptoms. But as Kajal Kaj from the film emphasises,

“Every woman over 50 should attend. It’s not just about having symptoms; it’s about diagnosing cancer at the earliest stage when it’s more treatable. Get your friends or family involved when your invitation arrives; talk it through, and make sure you go—it can be lifesaving.”

All women registered with a GP will receive an invitation for breast screening every three years between the ages of 50 to 71. Your first invite will come in the post between age 50 and 53. Even if your breast screening shows no sign of breast cancer, it’s important to check your breasts between mammograms and contact your GP practice if you notice any changes.

So remember, when you’re invited: Save the date, it could save your life!

For more information, search ‘NHS breast screening’ and to watch the inspiring film, visit: [xxxxx].