South West breast screening hit 10-year high

Over 2,000 early detections

The South West is emerging as a national leader in the battle against breast cancer.

New NHS figures show a 10-year high in screening uptake, with more than 530,000 women in the region proactively attended their first appointments.

The 73.8% uptake is significantly above the national average of 70.6%. While the South East performs closely at 73.3%, regions like London lag behind with a 63.4% rate.

This increased detection is standardised by every 3-year screening cycle for women aged 50-71, as per NHS policy. 

The proactive participation led to more than 2,000 cancers being caught early, a 17% jump on previous years.

Women are automatically invited for their first screening between the ages of 50 and 53, and then they receive an invitation every three years until they turn 71. 

Despite the success, health professionals are warning that one in four women in the South West are still missing their appointments. 

An urgent call to action is underway to boost numbers by providing more convenient options, including mobile screening units and extended diagnostic hours.

"Breast screening saves lives—in the last year alone, our South West programme detected nearly 2,200 cancers," says Dr. Matthew Dominey. "If you’re invited, please come forward; it’s quick, and our team is here to support you.

For more details on how to get checked, please click here.