Why the NHS offers breast screening
We offer screening because it can save lives from breast cancer.
Breast screening can find signs of breast cancer at an early stage. We look for cancers that are too small for you to feel or see.
Finding breast cancer early means that your treatment may be simpler and is more likely to be effective.
Who we invite for breast screening
We invite all women to have their first breast screening between the ages of 50 and 53. Then you’ll be invited every 3 years until you turn 71. This is because most breast cancers develop in women over the age of 50.
Please make sure your GP surgery has your correct and up to date contact details so we can invite you. This includes your:
- name
- date of birth
- address
- mobile phone number
- email address
If you are transgender or non-binary and you would like to be invited for breast screening, talk to your GP surgery. They can advise if you can have breast screening. Find more information on screening for transgender and non-binary people.
If you are 71 or over, you can still choose to have breast screening every 3 years, but you will not be automatically invited.
Download 'Your guide to NHS breast screening' from the GOV.UK website