Women encouraged to attend breast cancer screening

Women in Glenrothes aged from 50 to 70 are being urged to attend breast cancer screening.

The NHS mobile mammogram unit is visiting the town next month.

Those eligible for a cancer check, and who are registered with a GP, will receive a letter inviting them to an appointment.

Mary Tait is from the South East Scotland Breast Screening Centre.

She said: “Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Scottish women, but it is the most treatable if caught early.

“Some women may feel anxious and nervous about screening, especially if it’s their first appointment, but all our mammographers are female and go above and beyond to make women feel comfortable on the day.

“If you decide to come along to your next appointment, I can reassure you that you won’t be alone.

“Most women invited for screening choose to go as it could save their life.

“Know the facts and don’t get scared, get screened.”

Women are five times more likely to survive if breast cancer is caught early.

Screening saves around 130 lives in Scotland every year.

The mammogram can help pick up tiny cancers, often when they are less advanced.

One in nine women will develop breast cancer and the combination of screening and regular checking gives women the best chance of being diagnosed early and surviving.

Women who are aged over 70 are still welcome to go for screening every three years, although will not be automatically invited.

For more information visit getcheckedearly.org