What is the screening for and why is it important?
The aim of breast screening is to detect breast cancer at an earlier stage, often before the woman is aware of any problem. Early detection may mean simpler and more successful treatment. Scientific evidence shows that regular breast screening, between the ages of 50-70 years, reduces the death rate from breast cancer. See the NHS Breast Screening Programme for more details.
Where is screening carried out?
To enable women to be screened closer to home, breast screening is carried out at a number of sites across the region.
In Islington and Camden, the Breast Screening Service is provided by The Central & East London Breast Screening Service
In Barnet, Enfield and Haringey the Breast Screening Service is provided by The North London Breast Screening Service
Referral
The invitation is sent out automatically. All women will receive their first invitation for a mammogram sometime between their 50th and 53rd birthdays.
GP practices are invited for screening in turn, so women will not necessarily get their invitation in the year that they turn 50. As long as a woman is registered with a GP, she will receive an invitation before her 53rd birthday.
Self-referral
Women aged over 70 should get in touch every three years to request screening.
telephone: 020 3758 2024
email: [email protected]
Further information
Further information can be found on the North Central London CCG website here
