Talking about breast screening
A helpful guide to bringing up the subject of breast screening with a family member or friend
If you have family members or friends who are women and aged 50 to 70, they should receive a letter inviting them for a breast screening every three years. If they haven’t had a screening, or they have missed one, a chat with you could give them the nudge they need, and it could save their life…
Tip 1. Make sure you are in a calm and quiet environment
For example you could speak about it whilst having lunch or out for a walk, ideally away from distractions.
Tip 2. Bring up the topic slowly
Things you might say to help bring up the topic of breast screening…
- Have you received your breast screening invitation?
- I hear that they can detect breast cancer early now. Have you received your invitation?
- A friend of mine just had their breast screening and they said it was easy to organise and the process was simple
It’s a good idea to make sure you understand the basics…
- Breast cancer is treatable when it is detected early
- Women aged 50 to 70 are invited every three years
- The breast screening units are staffed by all women
- Who to talk about it further with, for example their GP or practice nurse
Tip 3. Know the barriers
It’s important to try to understand common barriers that might stop someone wanting to go to their breast screening. Here are some examples of what someone might say and some suggestions on how you might respond…
“I don’t want to know that I have cancer / if I have cancer”
Answer: Around 96% of women who are screened show no sign of cancer which brings reassurance and peace of mind. Around 4% need further tests and 1% will have cancer. Early detection of breast cancer can massively improve your chances of survival.
“I don’t have any symptoms – so I can’t have cancer”
Answer: 50% of breast cancers detected during screening are from women who do not have any symptoms or lumps.
“I just don’t have time to fit in my screening around all my other priorities”
Answer: It is important that you find the time to do this. Taking care of yourself will help make sure you are here for the rest of us. There are early morning and weekend appointments available. You can look online or give the screening service a call on 020 3758 2024.
“I am worried that it will hurt / be painful”
Answer: During your mammogram you may experience some discomfort as the breast is squashed to allow for the imaging to take place. This will only last a few minutes and you can return to your daily routine straight after your appointment. If you are experiencing pain during the mammogram you can inform the mammographer who will do their best to minimise any discomfort.
