Fears raised over women's breast screening in Cumbria

Some of those affected were tested at Cumberland Infirmary in Carlisle

Breast screening has been halted in north Cumbria over concerns 1,600 women may not have been tested properly.

Those affected are women recalled since 2007 for further tests at Carlisle's Cumberland Infirmary and Whitehaven's West Cumberland Hospital.

North Cumbria University Hospitals Trust said the suspension was temporary while "improvements" were made.

It also apologised for any "distress caused" and said it would be contacting women who needed to be re-tested.

Independent review

Concerns were raised when data showed that among women who were called for a second screening, cancer was detected in fewer cases than would be expected.

A statement from the trust said: "We have commissioned an independent review of 1,600 patient care records with the help and support of other screening centres.

"This review relates only to those women who were called back for further assessment following their routine screening from April 2007.

"These women will be contacted if they need to have further assessment.

"These checks need to be made to ensure the care that has been delivered is up to the standards we expect from the programme."

Anyone with concern or queries can contact a helpine which has been set up on 01228 608289.