Frequently Asked Questions

Why screen for Breast Cancer?

Breast Cancer is the most common form of cancer among women in England and Wales

One in 9 women in the UK will develop Breast Cancer

It accounts for one fifth of all female cancer deaths

Screening is performed by means of a special X-ray called a “mammogram”.

This test is the best way of detecting breast lumps even before the most experienced surgeon can feel them.

Early treatment of breast cancer greatly increases the chances of a full recovery.

It is estimated that the breast screening programme is saving 1,400 lives per year.

An appointment will automatically be sent to you from the screening office as long as you are registered with an NHS doctor. An information leaflet will also be sent with this letter.

What if I can’t come when invited?

You can change your appointment by contacting the screening office on 023 9222 2112

I’m 51 and haven’t received an invitation yet…why?

Your first invitation can arrive at any time between your 49th and 53rd birthday, It depends on which doctor you are registered with. The screening office should be able to give you an estimate of the when the service will be screening your doctor’s practice.

I’m 55 and haven’t received an Invitation…why?

Have you recently moved into the area? Have you recently changed address and not notified your doctor? Please ring the Breast Screening Unit on 023 9222 2112, and the staff will investigate further.

My next-door neighbour has had an invitation, but I haven’t. Why not?

Women are invited practice by practice, rather than street by street. Your neighbour may not be registered with the same doctor as you.

I have previously been treated for breast cancer. Does the screening still apply to me?

YES. Providing it has been over 6 months since your last mammogram. It is an extra and valuable check on your breasts.However, if you are still under breast cancer care and have annual mammograms, then cancel your screening appointment should you receive one.

Should I examine my own breasts?

YES. However being breast aware is not an alternative to mammography, which can detect cancer before any lump is felt.

What is Mammography?

It is a very low dose x-ray technique specially developed for taking pictures of the breasts.

I am not sure about X-rays, is it safe to be screened? 

The radiation dose you receive when you have a mammogram is very small. The benefits of being screened at your age far outweighs any risk of harm from the x-ray.

Does it hurt?

Because your breasts are compressed quite tightly for a few seconds during the procedure you might find it uncomfortable. A very small percentage of women do find it painful. If you get sore and tender breasts, particularly when your period is due, you could change your appointment to a different time of the month, or take the sort of painkiller you would normally use for a headache before attending.

How long does it take?

The actual mammogram itself only takes a few minutes, but you should allow about half an hour from start to finish.This will allow for confirmation of your details, an eligibility check and the mammogram itself.

Are all the staff who do the screening women?

Yes – for the first stage. If you were recalled for second-stage screening (“Assessment”), you may see other staff who could be male or female e.g. a male breast specialist doctor.

N.B. For this reason, male partners are discouraged from attending the mobile screening unit.

What is the best thing to wear? 

Separates are best as you will be asked to strip down to your waist. Also, avoid using talcum powder, body oils and spray deodorant.

Are there any facilities on the mobile unit?

Not really, the mobile unit is specifically designed for taking mammograms only, so the only facility available is the provision of changing cubicles together with the associated machines. There are no toilets and no childcare facilities.

What if I am disabled or I do not think I can manage the steps on the mobile unit?

Not a problem, please call our screening office on 023 9222 2112 and we will arrange an appointment at our static unit in the Breast Services Department in Queen Alexandra Hospital

I have breast implants; can I still have a mammogram?

You can still have a mammogram but you cannot go to the mobile unit. You must attend the static unit because the radiographers do not have the facility to process the films to check the exposure settings on the mobile unit. Please call our screening office on 023 9222 2112 and we will arrange an appointment at our static unit for you.

Can I bring anyone with me?

Space is very limited on the mobile screening unit so we prefer you to come on you own, however if you have a carer then of course they can accompany you. There is more space in our Static Unit and we can happily accommodate a partner/friend to wait in the waiting room for you if you wish.