More than 500,000 women attend breast screening in South West
Uptake has increased, but a quarter of women still missing appointments.
In the South West, 73.8% of eligible women are now up to date with their breast screenings according to the programme’s three-year standard.
This marks a rise of 1.2 percentage points compared to last year.
Recent figures reveal that in 2024 to 2025, 531,670 women in the region, aged between 50 and 70, attended screenings within six months of receiving an invitation.
The screenings led to the detection of almost 2,200 cases of breast cancer, equating to 9.3 diagnoses per 1,000 women screened.
This represents an increase of nearly 17% from the previous year when 1,822 cancers were identified through NHS breast screening.
Early detection through screening allows women access to treatment at a stage when it is likely to be more effective.
Despite the increase in attendance, statistics highlight that over a quarter of eligible women in the South West are not attending their screening appointments.
Efforts are underway by local screening services alongside NHS England South West to enhance screening uptake.
In October 2025, for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, NHS England South West will partner with breast cancer survivor Louise Butcher, known as The Topless Runner, to raise awareness about the importance of screenings.
Dr Matthew Dominey, Consultant in Public Health and Screening and Immunisation Lead for NHS England South West, emphasized the significance of screening: “We know breast screening can save lives. In 2024 to 2025 our breast screening programme in the South West detected almost 2,200 cancers, helping those women access treatment earlier when it is more likely to be effective."
"If you receive an invitation for your breast screening, please come forward. It can be daunting, but the screening appointment is quick and our screening practitioners are trained to help you feel comfortable and supported."