All women over 50 to be called for breast scans

In 2025, women will be automatically invited for breast screening in their 50th year

Health chiefs say improvements are being made to the breast screening programme in Jersey.

Women who are not registered for breast screening will in future be automatically invited for an examination when they reach the age of 50.

The project has been made possible thanks to a £255,000 mammography machine paid for by The John Clive Le Seelleur Trust, and funding from the charity Jersey Cancer Relief.

The machine, at the Enid Quenault Health and Wellbeing Centre, will be used for routine screenings.

Previously women needed to register for breast screening when they turned 50. However, in 2025, women will be automatically invited for breast screening during their fiftieth year, being able to opt-out if they wish.

The new machine will also be available if the mammography machine at the General Hospital, which is used for symptomatic patients, requires repair.

'Vital in saving lives'

Assistant Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Andy Howell, said: "I’m delighted to announce changes to our breast screening programme which will both improve a woman’s access to care and their experience as a patient.

"I would like to thank Jersey Cancer Relief and The John Clive Le Seelleur Trust for their incredible support which means we can ensure that all women are invited for breast screening when they become eligible. Early detection is vital in saving lives."

Also, a new mammography machine to replace the current machine at the General Hospital, funded by HCS, is due to be installed in the first quarter of next year.