Britons above a specific age are being encouraged to attend a crucial cancer screening appointment. Women aged 50 and older are offered a breast cancer screening every three years.
The National Health Service (NHS) emphasized that this screening could identify the disease “before” any symptoms become noticeable. Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer type in the UK, with approximately 56,900 new cases detected annually, as reported by Cancer Research UK.
It is also the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths, resulting in about 11,200 fatalities each year. Although rare in men, the disease can still affect them, with around 390 male diagnoses yearly.
In a social media post, the NHS stated: “Regular breast screening can detect breast cancer before you experience any symptoms. Women aged 50 and above will receive invitations for screening every three years until their 71st birthday.
“Early detection and advances in treatments have contributed to enhanced recovery and survival rates from breast cancer. If you believe you should undergo screening but have not been automatically invited by age 53, contact your local screening service.”
NHS breast screening employs X-rays, known as mammograms, to identify cancers that are too small to be felt or seen. The NHS website advises that individuals aged 71 and older will not automatically receive screening invitations. However, they can still request screening every three years by contacting their local service for an appointment.
For transgender individuals or non-binary individuals, the screening invitation process depends on the gender registered with their GP. Those registered as female will be automatically invited, while those registered as male will not.
The NHS cautions that individuals should consult a GP if they experience any breast cancer symptoms, even after a clear screening.
“It is crucial not to wait for the next screening appointment,” emphasized the NHS.
Common symptoms of breast cancer in women include changes in breast size or shape, a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit, nipple changes, and discharge. If the cancer has spread, symptoms may involve bone pain, weight loss, and breathlessness.
Men may experience symptoms such as a lump beneath the nipple or areola, changes in nipple appearance, and discharge.
The NHS further advised, “Regularly examine your breasts to understand what is normal for you. This practice helps in noticing any alterations in breast size, appearance, or texture.”
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