Breast cancer screening uses a low-does x-ray of the breast called a mammograms. A mammogram is a way of finding signs of early breast cancers that are too small to see or feel. It does not prevent breast cancer, but it does reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer each year. When breast cancer is diagnosed early, your treatment is more likely to be effective and you may need less treatment.

If you have possible symptoms of breast cancer, make an appointment with your GP. Do not wait for a breast screening invite.

Who can have breast screening?

Breast screening is offered to anyone who is registered as female with their GP, and aged between 50 and 70. If you are over 70, you can self-refer through your GP.If you are transgender (trans) or non-binary, talk to your GP or practice nurse about breast screening. The NHS breast screening programme only automatically invites people who are registered as female with their GP. Your GP can contact them and arrange for you to be invited for screening.We have more information for trans and non-binary people. It includes information about having tests and treatment, and getting support.

You can find out more about breast screening and making decisions on the following websites:

• GOV.UK – Breast screening: Helping women decide
• NHS – How to decide if you want breast screening
• NHS Inform (Scotland) – Breast screening.

Your local breast screening unit

You can find out more about your local breast screening units:

• England
• Northern Ireland
• Scotland
• Wales.

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, you may be offered regular breast screening when you are under the age of 50. We have more information about breast screening if you have a family history of breast cancer.