Breast Cancer Care comment on Times letter criticising information issued by NSH breast screening programme

Thursday, 19 February 2009 12:00 AM

Comment on today's letter in The Times, which criticises the NHS Breast Screening Programme for failing to provide women with information around the potential risks of routine breast cancer screening.

Dr Emma Pennery, Clinical Director at Breast Cancer Care, said:

"We would urge women not to be put off breast screening by this report and to continue to accept regular invitations to screening, and that those beyond the programme's age range take up their right to request regular mammograms.

"Screening remains one of the best ways of enabling breast cancers to be detected as soon as possible which can lead to simpler, more effective treatment.

"People regularly call our helpline with questions about screening so we are aware of the anxiety it can cause, especially if it results in further investigations or treatment.

"We know that the NHS breast-screening programme is looking to update its literature to include more information on the risks of screening, and we welcome that review."

ENDS

For further media information, please contact
Ian Manley
0207 960 3450/0770 290 1334
ian.manley@breastcancercare.org.uk

Breast Cancer Care is here for anyone affected by breast cancer. We bring people together, provide information and support, and campaign for improved standards of care. We use our understanding of people's experience of breast cancer and our clinical expertise in everything we do. Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call our free helpline on 0808 800 6000.

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