A MOBILE breast screening unit will be in St Margaret’s Hospital, Epping from 18th November 2019 and will be seeing patients aged between 50 and 70 who are due for their three yearly screen.

It is anticipated that approximately 3000 women will be invited for screening over the coming months.

The breast screening service, which is provided by The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, is an important part of a national approach to reducing death from cancer. It is estimated that across the country 1,400 lives will be saved each year by the programme.

Janet Skeys, Breast Service Manager said: “Our mobile unit contains the latest equipment and technology. Upon arrival each patient will be greeted by a radiographer who will explain the process. The screening takes less than 10 minutes and the results are available two to three weeks later. It will be three years before women are called again in this area. It is hoped that more women than ever before will take up the opportunity of this vital examination”.

Women are screened every three years after the age of 50 and until they are 70, then after the age of 70, women can phone us for an appointment.

Janet explained that women cannot just drop in for an appointment but if they wish to referred for screening, they can call 01992 561110.

However, most women should receive an automatic invitation to attend with appointment times which can be changed if inconvenient.  Special arrangements can be made for women with a disability if they contact 01279 827046.