Screening finds breast cancer at an early stage, when the cancer is too small to see or feel. At this size, it is usually easier to treat. Screening saves about 1,300 lives from breast cancer each year in the UK.
Breast screening uses an X-ray test to check the breast for signs of cancer. This is called a mammogram.
A mammogram can spot cancers that are too small to see or feel. If breast cancer is detected early, treatment is more successful and there’s a good chance of recovery. Screening does not stop you getting breast cancer.
Anyone registered with a GP as female will be invited for NHS breast screening every 3 years between the ages of 50 and 71. You'll get a letter in the post inviting you.
When you'll be invited
You'll automatically get your first invite for breast screening between the ages of 50 and 53. Then you'll be invited every 3 years until you turn 71.
If you're a trans man, trans woman or are non-binary you may be invited automatically, or you may need to talk to your GP surgery or call the local breast screening service to ask for an appointment.
You need to be registered with a GP surgery to be invited for breast screening.
The breast screening service can be contacted on 0116 2583644.