Since 2001, the total number of cancers detected through breast screening has risen by nearly a third.

Screening makes it possible to detect and treat cancer earlier, which means women can have a much better chance of survival. Of the 11,000 cancers detected last year, nearly half were smaller cancers, which could only be picked up through screening.

Age Extension, 2-View Mammography

"We know that detecting cancer early helps save lives," says Health Secretary, John Reid in a statement. "Last year, over 11,000 women had breast cancer detected and treated more quickly than they otherwise would have thanks to the NHS breast screening programme. In fact nearly half of these wouldn't have been detected at all without screening. That is why it is so important that women make sure they take up their invitation for breast screening," he emphasizes.

The increase in the number of cancers being detected by screening is largely due to the introduction of two-view mammography, which involves taking two views of each breast at every screen instead of just at the first. As of December 2004, over 95% of local screening units were using this technique.

Investing £11.5 million to extending the breast screening programme to women aged 65-70, coupled with an extra £11.4 million for equipment, has also helped to significantly improve the number of cancers picked up.

Early Detection Saves Lives

"This year's statistics show that women are benefiting from major changes to the breast screening programme," says Julietta Patnick, Director of the NHS Cancer Screening Programmes.

"Following the implementation of two-view mammography, we are seeing an improvement in the rate of cancer detection. We are also seeing a significant increase in the total numbers of women screened due to the expansion of the programme to regularly invite women up to and including age 70," she notes.

"The successful implementation of age extension and two-view mammography are proof of our commitment to continuing to provide women with access to a high quality service," Patnick concludes, "and I would strongly urge all women aged 50 and over to attend for regular breast screening every three years."