Those at risk of developing breast cancer should be scanned earlier

For those who have a family history of breast cancer, NHS screening usually begins once a woman reaches 40.

However, a recent study has found that breast cancer is more likely to be caught early if those between the ages of 35 and 39 receive annual screening.

The research, funded by the charity Breast Cancer Now, involved almost 3000 woman between ages 35 and 39 and considered at moderate or high risk of developing the cancer being screened.

35 breast cancer tumours were discovered, with the majority being identified whilst they were still small and before they had spread.

In a separate group of woman, none of whom were scanned, there were far fewer cases of the cancer being discovered at such an early stage and before it had spread.

The study shows the effectiveness of regular screening on young woman, and shows the benefits it can have on a woman’s future health.

The potential downside of these results is that more offering more cancer checks may cause unnecessary stress and over-treatment for some individuals. Some cancers are so slow growing that they are effectively harmless and therefore do not need treatment.

However Professor Gareth Evans, the leading author of this research, stated that overtreatment is less likely going to be a problem for younger woman at a higher risk as having earlier screening will be an added cancer preventive.

Amanda Cavanagh, Trainee Legal Executive in the Medical Negligence team at Ashtons Legal, comments: “Early detection and early treatment nearly always results in a better outcome for the patient and family. Surely the benefits outweigh the economics in this situation? Hopefully this evidence will persuade the NHS to consider this in its long-term plan”.