Breast Cancer Care on research published in the Lancet Oncology online

Comment on research published in the Lancet Oncology online which suggests that women under 50 with a family history of breast cancer should be offered annual mammograms.

Jackie Harris, Clinical Nurse Specialist at Breast Cancer Care said:

“The results of this large-scale study are very reassuring as they confirm that current NICE guidance1 , which recommends annual mammograms for women over 40 who are at an increased risk of breast cancer, is effective.

“As the authors acknowledge, longer term research is still needed to show whether mortality rates can be improved by screening this group annually. “Anyone concerned about their family history of breast cancer should talk to their GP who will refer them to family history clinic if necessary.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1) National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Familial Breast Cancer, CG41, 2006

2) Breast Cancer Care’s ‘Breast Cancer in Families’ booklet can be ordered free from www.breastcancercare.org.uk or by calling freephone 0808 800 6000.

For further media information, please contact
Laura Grossart
0207 960 3473/ 0770 290 1334
laura.grossart@breastcancercare.org.uk

Breast Cancer Care is here for anyone affected by breast cancer. We bring people together, provide information and support, and campaign for improved standards of care. We use our understanding of people’s experience of breast cancer and our clinical expertise in everything we do.Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call our free helpline on 0808 800 6000.