Breast Screening (Mammogram)

Posted on April 29th, 2026

Why the NHS offers breast screening

We offer screening because it can save lives from breast cancer. Breast screening can find signs of breast cancer at an early stage. We look for cancers that are too small for you to feel or see.

Finding breast cancer early means that your treatment may be simpler and is more likely to be effective.

Who we invite for breast screening

We invite all women to have their first breast screening between the ages of 50 and 53. Then you’ll be invited every 3 years until you turn 71. This is because most breast cancers develop in women over the age of 50.

Please make sure your GP surgery has your correct and up to date contact details so we can invite you. This includes your:

• name
• date of birth
• address
• mobile phone number
• email address

If you are transgender or non-binary and you would like to be invited for breast screening, talk to your GP surgery. They can advise if you can have breast screening. Find more information on screening for transgender and non-binary people.

If you are 71 or over, you can still choose to have breast screening every 3 years, but you will not be automatically invited. To make an appointment, find your local breast screening unit or ask your GP surgery for contact details.

Breast cancer

Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast begin to divide and grow abnormally. It’s the most common type of cancer in women in the UK. 1 in 7 women may get breast cancer in their lifetime.

How serious breast cancer is depends on how big the cancer is and if the cancer has spread. Early detection and better treatments have led to improved recovery and survival from breast cancer.

How breast screening works

Your local screening service will usually be in a hospital or could be at a mobile screening unit elsewhere. Breast screening uses a breast X-ray called a mammogram to take images of the inside of your breasts. Specialists will then look at your mammograms for signs of any abnormal changes to your breasts. Most people will not need any further tests because there are no signs of breast cancer. If there are any signs of possible breast cancer, you may need further tests. Your screening service will offer you an appointment to discuss any further tests.