Huddersfield breast cancer screening rises by 30%

Jan 25 2010 by Anne-Marie Senior, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

MORE WOMEN than ever before are coming forward for breast screening in Huddersfield.

The number of eligible women attending mammogram appointments across West Yorkshire rose by 30% last year.

The move has led to more women being diagnosed with breast cancer earlier – increasing their chances of a speedy recovery.

A total of 56,000 women across West Yorkshire were offered appointments by the Pennine Breast Screening Programme – which co-ordinates the NHS scheme in Huddersfield.

A total of 43,000 agreed to be screened, compared with only 33,000 the year before.

Dr Peter James, director of breast screening for Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust – which runs the Pennine programme – said: “The fact we are screening more women for breast cancer is brilliant news because there is no doubt that early detection saves lives every year.

“Screening helps detect cancers at an early stage and the earlier the intervention the better chance women have of survival.

“A 30% rise in attendances is excellent and I would urge everyone with an appointment to attend when invited as it could be extremely important.”

Women between the ages of 50 and 70 are routinely called for screening at over 40 locations by four mobile breast screening units which travel throughout the region.

Women can also self-refer once they reach the age of 70.