NHS “Ping and book” not enough to improve early cancer detection, breast density expert urges

“We welcome the news that the NHS is launching a ‘ping and book’ service to increase the uptake of cancer screening for women. However, this is only part of the solution for detecting cancer sooner.  

“Over 40% of women over 40 have dense breasts, which makes it harder to screen for cancer using a standard mammogram. Dense breast tissue also increases the risk of developing breast cancer. Unlike in the US, women in the UK are not routinely told their breast density following screening, which would enable them to advocate for themselves, ask for further tests and be more informed regarding their breast cancer risk. The absence of this leads to missed and late diagnosis of breast cancer.  

“We urge the NHS and policy makers to take this vital next step and universally share breast density information to improve outcomes for women. Additionally, it’s crucial that more focus is placed on alternative ways to identify those women who have high risk factors but are not routinely screened due to their age, enabling them to be referred to existing high risk screening pathways.” 

Adrian Waller, CEO, Micrima