Breast screening to stay healthy – by SW London NHS

Breast cancer is the most common cancer amongst women in the UK. In fact, 1 in 7 women will have a breast cancer in their lifetime. The two biggest reasons for a breast cancer starting to form are: being a woman and getting older. This means that all women are at risk. There is good news though. Breast cancer treatments have improved over the years and often breast cancers can be treated very well. The key is to find the cancer early. There are two things you can do to help yourself:

First - Be aware of your chest ( breast)

This is important at any age. There isn’t a right or a wrong way to check yourself. Check your breasts every month. If anything changes, you should go to your GP. There is lots of help about breast awareness at: www.coppafeel.org

Second – Come for your NHS breast Screening (Mammogam/X-ray)

A mammogram is an X-ray picture of your breasts. It can show up a cancer before you can see or feel anything. If you are between 50 and 71 you will be invited for a breast screening mammogram. A letter is normally sent to you every 3 years. If you are over 71, you can still ask for an appointment. Please ring 020 37582024 or go to our South West London Breast Screening website: Breastscreening

If you are not in South West London then find your nearest NHS breast screening service at: Find breast screening services - NHS

Thinking about breast cancer might make you feel worried. However, coming for your screening appointment might save your life.

We have six screening sites over South West London. We can help you find the nearest screening site for you. If you have any questions, this is the best number to call: 020 37582024. If you don’t have a GP, call this number. If you have missed an appointment, please call us. You can call our nursing team on 020 8725 2726 if:

· You have a physical disability

· Problems with walking or moving

· Are unsure if you can have a mammogram

We will always try to help you.

Below: Watch Traveller Glenda talk to West Sussex Breast Screening Unit:

Please come for breast screening – it might just save your life!

By SW London Breast Screening Service for Travellers Times Health

Video by Friends, Families and Travellers

(Lead photo by Sasun Bughdaryan on Unsplash)