In a powerful testament to the life-saving potential of breast screening, a woman who was diagnosed with breast cancer despite having no symptoms is urging others to take up the offer of free NHS breast screening when invited.

Theresa Carter’s plea comes as NHS England has today (17/2) launched its first-ever awareness campaign to highlight the benefits of screening and encourage more women to make the most of regular mammograms, as national figures show more than four in ten (46.3%) invited for the first time don’t act on their invitation.

Mrs Carter, aged 60, attended many breast screenings since turning 50, but her most recent screening in 2023 ended up saving her life.

Following the screening and to her surprise, Theresa was asked to return for a mammogram and a biopsy, which involved taking a small sample of body tissue for examination. This confirmed that she had ductal carcinoma, a tumour originating in the milk ducts, the most common type of non-invasive breast cancer.

Theresa had no symptoms and thankfully the cancer was found very early. She had a lumpectomy, a surgical procedure which only removes the area of the breast with the cancer in it, as well as radiotherapy and daily medication that she will take for five years to reduce the chances of it returning.

The mother of one from Slough said: “I am so grateful that the screening detected my cancer early, and I was able to start treatment immediately.

“So, when your letter arrives, please don’t ignore it or put it away for later.  Book your appointment as a few minutes of discomfort could save your life.

She added: “It may seem daunting but, in my experience, the staff do this every day, and they have always made me feel relaxed and at ease and before you know it, it’s over.”

Theresa has made a full recovery following her treatment and is so grateful that her breast screening detected the cancer at a stage when it was easiest to treat. She is now part of a knitting group “Knit Your Socks Off” where they make “boobies” to raise awareness, including for teenage girls in schools to let them know what to look for and how to check themselves.

Daghni Rajasingam, a NHSE Medical Director in the South East, said: “Even if you’ve had a recent mammogram, it’s important to continue checking your breasts regularly.

“Breast screening plays a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer, often identifying cancers before any visible or palpable changes occur. This early diagnosis significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival so I would encourage all eligible women to take up the offer when invited.”

All women aged 50 to 71 are invited for free NHS breast screening. The process is designed to be as comfortable as possible, with mammographers trained to support and reassure women throughout their appointment.

For those who have missed or declined their screening appointment, it is never too late. Women can contact their local NHS breast screening service to arrange an appointment, even if their last invitation was weeks, months, or years ago.

For more information about NHS breast screening services or to book an appointment, please visit the NHS website or contact your local NHS breast screening service.