Women in Redbridge invited for breast screening in bid to increase early detection and save lives

Redbridge Council’s Public Health team has partnered with the NHS and InHealth, to invite eligible women in the borough for a routine NHS breast screening.

The brand new screening site has opened in a mobile unit at Sainsbury’s Ilford. Women aged 50-71 living in Redbridge postcodes will receive an invitation for a routine screening, with an appointment to attend the mobile unit. These units are female-only environments.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with around one in seven women diagnosed in their lifetime. More women are surviving breast cancer than ever before, due to better awareness, screening and treatments. Early detection is key.

Gladys Xavier, Director of Public Health and Commissioning in Redbridge said: “Regular breast screening is one of the best ways to spot a cancer that is too small to feel or see. Breast screening saves around 1,300 lives each year in the UK. Finding cancer early can make it more likely that treatment will be successful.

“With our NHS partners, we are supporting the opening of the new breast screening site in Ilford. This new location will increase access to breast screening for women across Redbridge, and help more people receive an early diagnosis. Breast screening is offered to women aged 50 to 71. If you’re eligible you will receive an invitation in the post. It is important you attend this appointment if at all possible, or contact the team to alter it if you need to.”

Councillor Mark Santos, cabinet member for public health said: “We are driven to improve the health and wellbeing of people in Redbridge. This new screening service will bring peace of mind to most people, and early detection and better treatment for those who need it. Screening doesn’t take long, and the mobile unit is friendly, secure and private.”