October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of breast screening and early detection.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Scotland, with one in nine developing the disease during their lifetime. Women are five times more likely to survive if breast cancer is detected at its earliest stage.
In Scotland, women aged 50 to 70 are routinely invited for breast screening every three years. The process is quick, simple and always carried out by a female mammographer. While screening does not prevent cancer, it can detect small changes before they can be seen or felt, making treatment more effective.
Morag Nicholson, Public Health Programme Manager (Screening and Detect Cancer Early), said:“Attending your breast screening appointment is one of the most effective ways to find cancer early, and we know that early detection saves lives. The appointment itself only takes around ten minutes, and our experienced female mammographers are there to make the process as comfortable as possible.
“Breast screening can detect cancers that are too small to see or feel, giving women the best possible chance of successful treatment. Even if you’ve missed your last appointment or think you may be overdue, it’s never too late to take part — please contact the West of Scotland Breast Screening Service on 0141 800 8800 to rearrange. By taking that short time to attend, you’re taking an important step to look after your health.”
For more information on breast screening, including accessible formats and translations, visit www.nhsinform.scot/breastscreening.
