BreastCheck update

11 June 2013

BreastCheck is a population-based screening programme. Population-based screening is dynamic, advances in testing methods, diagnostic elements and treatments through to external factors such as government policy impact its future direction and development. BreastCheck reviews all relevant research when published. The Independent breast screening review for the United Kingdom (UK), published in late 2012, demonstrated in an extensive review a definite reduction in mortality - that breast screening saves lives.

During the past twelve years, BreastCheck has screened over 371,200 women and detected over 5,400 cancers. Breast cancer survival rates are improving in Ireland as a combined result of screening, early detection and more effective treatment options. However breast cancer continues to be the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and to have the second highest mortality rates. Over 2,700 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in Ireland each year and the cumulative risk of a woman developing cancer increases with age, with 76 per cent of breast cancer cases occurring in women over the age of 50.

BreastCheck aims to reduce mortality by detecting breast cancer at the earliest stage, when a woman has greater treatment options and her chosen treatment is likely to be less extensive and more successful. BreastCheck encourages women to make an informed decision on participating in its programme, more information on breast screening and the benefits and limits of breast screening.