'Get tested' urges woman now free of breast cancer

A woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer despite having no symptoms has urged people to be screened on the NHS.

Theresa Carter, from Slough, said she was "so grateful" to be cancer-free after a tumour was discovered having originated in her milk ducts.

All women aged 50 to 71 are invited for a free NHS breast screening, which play a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer.

At the appointments, X-rays known as mammograms are taken to look for cancers that are too small to see or feel.

Following an initial screening Mrs Carter was asked to return for a mammogram and a biopsy, which involved taking a small sample of body tissue for examination.

This confirmed that she had ductal carcinoma, a tumour which originates in the milk ducts.

She had a lumpectomy, a surgical procedure which only removes the area of the breast with the cancer in it.

This was followed by radiotherapy and daily medication that she will take for five years to reduce the chances of the cancer returning.

Mrs Carter said: "I am so grateful that the screening detected my cancer early, and I was able to start treatment immediately.

"When your letter arrives, please don't ignore it or put it away for later.  Book your appointment as a few minutes of discomfort could save your life."

NHS England said women can contact their local NHS breast screening service to arrange an appointment, even if their last invitation was weeks, months, or years before.

It added that women who notice any changes that could be signs of breast cancer should contact their GP practice immediately.

This month it was announced 700,000 women would be recruited to take part in an NHS artificial intelligence (AI) breast cancer screening trial across the UK.

It comes as the government launches a call for evidence to help it shape its national cancer plan, which is due to be launched later this year.

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