This October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a timely moment to ask: how can awareness become action?
Breast cancer screening on the NHS starts at 50, but more women are choosing private screening mammograms in their 40s, in order to diagnose and treat cancer at its earliest stages.
Private healthcare provider Scan is one of the UK's few breast imaging providers, offering mammograms at age 40 — without the need for a GP referral.
Learn how to get earlier access to a mammogram
In 2024 the U.S Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) updated its guidance, recommending biennial mammograms from age 40. According to their modelling, doing so could reduce breast cancer deaths by 20% by diagnosing and treating cancers at their earliest stages.
The NHS only offers regular breast cancer screening from the age of 50 (earlier if you think you've found a sign of breast cancer).
Going private with providers like Scan mean you get ahead of the curve in these key ways:
- Opportunity to spot aggressive cancers earlier
- Better treatment opportunities
- Reduced risk of death from breast cancer if caught early
Find out how to book a scan
See what other scans are available:
When should I not have a breast screening?
If you're experiencing any of the symptoms below, book an appointment with a GP urgently and don't wait for a screening:
- Noticeable breast changes such as dimpling or thickening of the breast tissue
- a lump
- a change in size or shape of your breasts or nipples
- a rash or redness
- any fluid or discharge from the nipples
These issues might not necessarily mean anything serious, but it's important to check nonetheless.
For guidance on how to correctly check your breasts or chest, we'd recommend Coppafeel's Self Checkout.
The video below also guides you through the process:
Let's do some myth busting...
Are mammograms painful?
For many it's not painful, but some discomfort is normal. Read more here.
Isn't there a chance of overdiagnosis?
While overdiagnosis is a consideration, the evidence suggests the benefits of early detection outweigh the risks. Find out more about the process here.
Are mammograms safe?
Women aged 40-49 in the UK can have a mammogram every 12 months. Click here for further detail.
Still have a few questions? Read Scan's FAQ here.
