LANCASHIRE and South Cumbria breast screen services are fully operational as the NHS are hoping that women will make sure they attend.

One in eight women in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime with the risk increasing with age.

All people between the ages of 50 to 70 who have breasts, due to either naturally occurring oestrogen or oestrogen hormone therapy are invited for screening every three years.

Breast screening aims to find breast cancers early and local people are being assured that it is safe to attend this quick but vital appointment if invited.

Rabea Haq, Director of Breast Screening at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust said: "Routine breast screening services are now fully up and running. If you are due for your screening appointment you will receive an invitation letter in the post. The letter will give you a number to call so you can book an appointment that suits you.

"Breast screening can find early signs of cancer so I would urge everyone to attend their appointment when invited."

Breast screening involves having an X-ray (mammogram) at a special clinic or mobile breast screening unit while having the chance to talk about any problems or concerns you have.

Usually, two X-rays of each breast are taken – one from above and one from the side with a plastic plate will be gently but firmly pressed onto your breast so that they can get clear pictures.

The X-ray test can spot cancers when they’re too small to see or feel and results will be sent to you and your GP within two weeks.

Dr Neil Smith, Primary Care Director and Cancer Research UK GP for Lancashire and South Cumbria Cancer Alliance said: "Breast cancer can affect you at any age, so it’s important to be ‘Breast Aware’ and check your breasts for lumps or a change in size or shape at least once a month. If you notice anything unusual, please don’t wait – contact your GP straight away.

"In most cases it won’t be cancer, but it’s best to get checked over because early diagnosis saves lives."