NHS makes three word plea as 'it could save your life'

By Andrew Nuttall, Senior Lifestyle Writer

Breast screening can be a lifesaving appointment you don't want to miss (Image: Getty)

People have been urged to take advantage of a potentially life-saving NHS appointment. Any woman registered with a GP between the ages of 50 and 71 will be invited for NHS breast screening every three years. You'll get a letter in the post inviting you.

In its message, an NHS spokesperson said: "Taking your bra off at the end of the day feels great. And so does getting your breast screening sorted."

They added: "It can detect cancer before you can feel it or, more likely, put your mind at rest. So when you're invited, save the date. It could save your life."

These breast screenings use X-rays called mammograms to check your breasts for signs of cancer. It's done by female health specialists called mammographers.

Anyone can get breast cancer - it's one of the most common types of cancer in the UK. This includes women, men, trans and non-binary people, according to the NHS.

The chance of getting breast cancer increases as you get older. That makes attending these appointments all the more vital as you get older.

Some people are more likely to get breast cancer than others. You may have a higher chance if you have:

• several close relatives who have had breast or ovarian cancer or both
• a change in a gene (mutation) that makes you more likely to get breast cancer – these include BRCA1, BRCA2 or TP53

Regular breast screening is one of the best ways to spot a cancer that is too small to feel or see. Finding cancer early can make it more likely that treatment will be successful and less likely you'll need to have a breast removed (known as a mastectomy).

While routine mammograms aren't part of the NHS breast screening program for women under 50, you can request one if you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors or if you have concerns.

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As well as going for regular breast screening, it's important you know how your breasts normally look and feel. Cancers can develop between mammograms.

If you notice any changes in your breasts that are not normal for you, see a GP straight away. Acting quickly will allow as much time as possible to conduct tests and come up with a plan to treat any abnormalities.

It's your choice if you want to go for breast screening. Screening does not stop you from getting breast cancer, but it is the best way to spot cancers at an early stage.

If you have not been invited for breast screening by the time you are 53 and think you should have been, contact your local breast screening service. Those in England can find their nearest breast screening services here.