Sarah Howson-Probert, an Improving Breast Screening Uptake Officer at the Trust, is committed to helping individuals overcome barriers to accessing breast screening appointments and feeling confident about their health. Working collaboratively with GP practices, community groups, and local organisations, her role focuses on ensuring breast screening is accessible to everyone, particularly those who might face challenges attending or require additional support. This can involve assisting individuals with learning disabilities to understand the process, arranging necessary adjustments, providing information in accessible formats, or simply offering a supportive conversation to address any worries or questions about breast screening.
"It's about making sure everyone feels supported and informed. We want people to feel confident about attending their appointment and empowered to take charge of their own health," Sarah stated.
Breast screening plays a crucial role in detecting changes in the breast that may not be apparent otherwise, enabling the identification of cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage. Women aged between 50 and 71 are routinely invited for screening every three years, with initial invitations typically sent between the ages of 50 and 53.
Sarah's core message is straightforward: "Screening is really important. Please attend your appointment. If the time isn't suitable, contact us and we'll help rearrange it."
A common concern Sarah addresses is the perception that screening is difficult, painful, or time-consuming. In reality, most appointments last around ten minutes. A mammographer guides the patient through the process, answers questions, and provides support throughout. While some may find the experience uncomfortable, Sarah advises against letting others' experiences deter attendance, noting that individual experiences vary and discomfort is usually brief. Patients are encouraged to communicate any discomfort to the mammographer, who will offer support to make the experience as comfortable as possible.
The team offers regular support to individuals anxious about appointments, providing extra time, reasonable adjustments, and tailored assistance. "If you've got questions or concerns, just come and talk to us. Sometimes people feel much better once they know what to expect," Sarah added.
Beyond screening, knowing one's own 'normal' is vital. Sarah stresses the importance of vigilance, recommending monthly self-checks to become familiar with one's body. Signs to be aware of include lumps or swelling in the breast, chest, or armpit; changes in breast skin texture or colour (such as dimpling or redness, which may be less visible on darker skin tones); an orange peel appearance; changes in breast size or shape; nipple discharge, potentially with blood; or changes in nipple appearance, like inversion or rash.
It is important to remember that most breast changes are not cancerous, but any new or unusual changes should always be checked by a healthcare professional.
