Over 70? You Can Still Self-Refer for Mammograms!

A 79-year-old woman from Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex, has launched a campaign encouraging women over 70 to self-refer for mammograms. Carol Turansky discovered she had breast cancer this year after requesting a scan, despite having no symptoms. She believes many older women are unaware of their option to request a mammogram every three years.

Turansky's petition, calling for an NHS campaign to inform older women about self-referral, has already collected over 70,000 signatures. She argues that cancer detection should not be limited by age. Research shows that one in three breast cancers are diagnosed in women aged 71 and above, underscoring a perceived gap in current NHS services.

Official guidance from the Department of Health and Social Care indicates that breast cancer screening decisions are based on the best available evidence. NHS England notes that the risk of overdiagnosis increases with age, and treatments may pose health risks to older individuals with other conditions. However, experts also acknowledge the importance of screening, especially if women notice changes or have concerns, advising direct contact with local screening units or GPs.

A UK trial is currently examining the benefits and risks of extending screening to younger and older age groups, with a report expected in 2027. This research is supported by Cancer Research UK and AgeX.