For every woman, looking after her health should always be a priority. It’s crucial to detect serious illnesses at an early stage so that treatment can begin promptly. Breast cancer is a severe disease feared by women everywhere, and it remains the most common cancer among women globally.
London is no exception, and health-aware women there strive to get regular check-ups, as early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. Worldwide, and particularly in London, mammography is one of the main screening methods that allows pathological changes in the breasts to be seen at an early stage. The metropolis offers free mammography screening programmes for specific age groups of women. More details follow on londonka.
Understanding the Disease
Cancer is a disease of the body’s cells, with over 200 known types, each having its own diagnostic and treatment protocol. Healthy body cells divide evenly and controllably, but when cells start to grow out of control, a tumour appears. This can be either benign or malignant. Here, we’re focusing on breast cancer, which is the most prevalent type of cancer in the UK. For example, it accounts for 40% of all oncology treatments provided by institutions like “Barts Health”.
It’s vital for women in London to be breast aware, ensuring their breasts are healthy and paying attention to unusual symptoms. These symptoms can include a small lump or thickening in the breast, swelling in the armpit, changes in the breast’s appearance, a rash on the skin of the breast, or nipple discharge. Risk factors for breast cancer include heredity, age, and sex, although men can also develop the disease. Symptoms can remain unnoticeable for a long time, so timely self-checking is essential.
Approximately 5% of people diagnosed with breast cancer receive the diagnosis genetically due to the BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes. If a woman has a significant family history of the disease, it’s best to seek medical advice for a consultation.
How is the Mammography Procedure Performed?
Since timely detection boosts the chances of a healthy life, having a mammogram is a worthwhile procedure. Responsible women in London routinely undergo this screening for early diagnosis.
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. This diagnostic tool helps radiologists accurately assess the breast tissues and detect changes, determining whether treatment is necessary. The procedure only takes around 30 minutes, and before it starts, a specialist will confirm your details and ask about any concerns you may have.
During the screening, the woman is called into the room, and the mammography technician positions the breast on the X-ray machine. It is gently compressed between two pieces of plastic to immobilise it for the image. This lasts only a few seconds. The machine is then tilted for an image of the side of the breast, and the other breast is examined in the same way. The screening can be a little uncomfortable, perhaps even painful, but staff are trained to provide support.
The NHS Breast Screening Programme in London
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) offers women aged 50 to 70 a free mammogram every three years. Women aged 45 and over should speak to their GP. This programme helps to detect breast cancer at an early stage, often before a lump is large enough to feel. It’s important to note that the screening itself does not prevent the development of breast cancer.
The first invitations for screening in London, as across the country, are sent to women when they are approximately 50-53 years old. After the age of 70, automatic invitations stop being sent out. At this stage, Londoners should take responsibility for their own self-care and perform regular self-examinations, ensuring they see a doctor promptly if they notice any changes. You can check when you are due for screening and book an appointment on the official NHS website or by contacting your GP.
In London, there are several NHS centres where you can get a free mammogram under the national programme, including:
- “King’s College Hospital Breast Screen”.
- “St Bartholomew’s Hospital Breast Screening Centre”.
- “Central and East London Breast Screening Service”.
- “West of London Breast Screening Service”.
- “North London Breast Screening Service”.
- “South East London Breast Screening Service”.
In addition to the government programme, there are charities and private clinics that occasionally run free screening days for women in London. You can also turn to organisations like “Breast Cancer Now,” which focuses on research and awareness campaigns regarding breast cancer. They can be contacted with any questions about the disease.
Another charity tackling breast cancer issues in London is “CoppaFeel!”, which runs educational programmes and supports young women in the fight against the disease. Their website provides comprehensive information on breast cancer, advice on how to be breast aware, and self-checking techniques. They also offer resources, such as webinars, school kits, and lesson plans, to help educators and healthcare professionals talk to students and patients about breast cancer.
Ultimately, early diagnosis is the key to successful breast cancer treatment. In London, there are many opportunities to get a free mammogram and check your health—it’s vital for women to look after themselves.