A WHILE ago I was called for routine mammogram screening. At the time, I thought this to be a good idea.

Now, I know I was wrong.

I was told by the radiographer what was involved, but what I wasn't prepared for was how painful the procedure would be.

I would not describe myself as being either soft or wimpish, but at one point I nearly passed out.

The radiographer continued to apply pressure even though she could see I was very distressed. I actually ended up with bruising.

I wonder what harm this pressure could cause to delicate breast tissue.

As things have turned out, my screening was clear and I understand that I will be called again in three years' time.

But where does that leave me? I feel traumatised and I don't use that word lightly. It is almost as if I had been violated -- perhaps that word is a bit strong, but it isn't far off.

At present, it is highly unlikely that, when called again, I will attend.

I will cancel my appointment -- that way someone else can go and valuable resources will not be wasted. I am sure there are many whose lives have been saved by screening.

A final thought: If men went for body screening where there is delicate sensitive tissue, I am sure a procedure would quickly be developed that was still as effective, but not so painful.

JEAN C LEWIS (address received).

Footnote: Mr John Dell, acting chief executive of Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Health Care Trust, said: "We are sorry that this lady experienced distress during her screening. However, with this procedure, a certain amount of pressure needs to be applied to the breasts in order to get a clear image. There is some discomfort involved, although it is very unusual for patients to feel the level of pain described by this lady.

"Breast screening is a vital diagnostic tool and we would encourage women to come forward when they are called. There is much evidence that it is an effective means of detecting cancer at an early stage and so improving the outcome for patients."

Dr R D Dobrashian, consultant and breast radiologist added: "Breast compression is, unfortunately, vital as it increases the quality of mammograms and the ability to detect cancer. Also, compression of the breast reduces the amount of radiation required to perform the test. Discomfort is often experienced (particularly if the patient is on HRT).

However, this is seldom severe enough to cause bruising or lasting pain. No harm can come to the breast from this type of compression.

"Our radiographers are trained to try to make the process as comfortable as possible, bearing in mind the high level of quality required to produce a diagnostic mammogram."