Breast Screening reduces the need for major surgery

Published 24th August, 2002

Researchers in Italy have found that fewer women have had a breast removed since a screening programme was introduced there in 1990.

In response to the article published in the British Medical Journal. Richard Winder, Deputy National Coordinator, NHS Cancer Screening Programmes comments;

"We are interested in and encouraged by the findings of the study by Paci, E and colleagues."

"The situation in the United Kingdom (2000/2001) is that 71 per cent of all women diagnosed with invasive breast cancers, detected through the programme, underwent conservation surgery while 28 per cent had more radical surgery. These figures have been consistent for a number of years."

"The NHS Breast Screening Programme makes every effort to ensure that all women are provided with an informed choice about the treatment options for breast cancer."

BBC News: Health Screening 'reduces breast removals'
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