This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Breast screening service enhanced
15/02/2007
Hundreds more cases of breast cancer will be detected every year due to changes to the Scottish Breast Screening Programme, it was announced today.
The changes will see the introduction of two view mammography into every round of the screening programme. At the moment, two views are only taken at the first screening appointment. It's estimated the move will detect 25 per cent more cancers - around 275 per year.
Health Minister Andy Kerr said:
"Cancer takes a terrible toll on families throughout Scotland. That's why it's vital we try and detect the disease as quickly as possible, and then offer suitable treatment.
"Two view mammography is likely to pick up small, impalpable cancers earlier than if only one view is used. Early detection can mean less radical treatment and a better prognosis. This change will save lives.
"Incidence of breast cancer increases with age, so in recent years we have concentrated on expanding the breast screening age range from 64 to 70. Scotland also employs double reading of mammograms. The introduction of two view mammography will make our screening programme even more comprehensive. That can only be good news for patients."
Speaking in support of the move, Lorraine Dallas, Head of Breast Cancer Care Scotland said:
"We are delighted that the Executive has taken the decision to ensure women in Scotland have access to two-view mammography. The commitment of resources to the screening programme is vital in ensuring the early detection of breast cancer, already demonstrated by the extension of the programme to older women.
"Breast Cancer Care believes women throughout Scotland will benefit from the enhancement of the service and this action will ensure it remains a critical part of the breast awareness strategy which plays an important role in breast cancer prevention, detection and treatment."
Background:
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Scotland accounting for 28.7 per cent of all cancers. In 2003 3823 cases were diagnosed.
When two view mammography is fully implemented the cost will be over £4 million pounds a year. An investment of £3.5 million will also go into developing Breast Screening units across Scotland, and augmenting the fleet of mobile screening units.
Two view mammography will be phased in across the country, and is due to be in place at all Breast Screening Units by summer 2010. This will give Boards time to develop the additional capacity required.