The NHS Breast Screening Programme
The Breast Screening programme is a routine x-ray examination of the breast. Breast Screening can detect very small cancers. Small cancers are usually at a very early stage and are more easily treated.
All women between 50 and 73 are eligible for breast screening once every three years. Breast screening for women over 73 years is available upon request.
Invitations for routine screening
The Breast Screening Service invites women by GP practice, so the first invitation may not be received in the year women turn 50. All women registered with a doctor, will be invited before their 53rd birthday.
Appointment for screening may be offered at one of the following:
- Breast Institute, Nottingham City Hospital.
- Ropewalk House, in the centre of Nottingham.
- Mobile screening unit which visits areas distant from Nottingham City.
The letter of invitation will include:
- A leaflet about breast screening.
- A map of the location.
- The date and time of appointment.
Attending for routine breast screening
Your mammogram will be performed by one of radiographic team. All radiographic staff are female.
A mammogram is an x ray of the breast and at least two pictures will be taken of each breast. Mammograms only take a few minutes to complete.
Attending for a second visit for breast screening
Some women may be asked to come for a second visit. All second visits will take place at the Breast Institute, normally on a Wednesday morning.
It may be necessary to have another mammogram or one or two other tests during this visit. When you arrive for this visit the specialist team will explain what will happen and keep you informed at all stages.