We appreciate that it has been a difficult few years and that sometimes we all prioritise other aspects of life over our health, however we wanted to take the time to highlight the benefits of screening. Sadly, breast cancer is very common with 1 in 7 women developing breast cancer in their lifetime. In the UK, there are on average 11,500 deaths from breast cancer each year. However, if breast cancer is picked up early it can be cured.
To further illustrate the benefits of screening, we thought it would be useful to share the experience of one of our very own GPs, Dr Andrea Staal.
“In 2015, I got a letter inviting me to attend breast cancer screening and being a very busy doctor, Mum, sister, auntie and friend, I remember distinctly thinking ‘I don’t have time for this’.
But of course, I knew I should go, as breast cancer screening saves lives and at that time, my beloved sister – just two years older than me- was dying of breast cancer, which was devastating and breaking my heart.
For me, getting the diagnosis of cancer early enough to have the treatments needed means I am now free of any medication and able to live life to the full. This is a gift I never ever take for granted and I am grateful for every single day.
Our health is our most precious asset, and the breast screening programme is invaluable in ensuring peace of mind for the many who are given the all-clear. It is also invaluable in early diagnosis for those where cancer is found, as happened to me.
This enables so many to continue to nurture their own health and live life to the full and I urge you all to do as I did and despite hesitation, make the time to go for screening. It is a simple test. I can tell you from personal experience, it is worth attending, more than words can say.”
All women between 50-70 years should be offered screening every 3 years.
If you have received a letter but not got round to making an appointment or you have not received a letter but should have done, please ring our local breast screening team to make an appointment. Tel: 01302 644966
Breast Screening (Mammography) – Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals