Wiltshire Breast Screening Service - FAQs

How will I get an appointment?

If you are registered with a G.P. you will automatically be screened when we visit that practice.

How will I get my results?

A letter will be sent to you and your GP.

My friend was screened when she was 50. I am now 52, why have I not been screened?

You will be screened the next time we are screening your area.  Unfortunately the last time we were in your area you were not eligible because you were not yet 50.

My GP has recently examined me. Do I still need to attend?

YES. Mammography is the best test for breast cancer and not all cancers can be felt.

I cannot make my appointment, can I re-arrange?

Yes, simply telephone the unit and another appointment will be made for you..

I am 70, can I still be screened?

Yes, simply telephone the unit and an appointment will be made for you.

My sister is 35, can she be screened?

Mammography is not the most suitable test for younger breasts as it is difficult to 'see through' dense breast tissue.  However, if she is worried about her breasts she should see her G.P. who if necessary will refer her for a more suitable test.

I have been recalled for a technical reason. What does that mean?

Unfortunately, sometimes the pictures taken are just not good enough and better ones are required to be able to give you your results.

I need to attend a second appointment, have I got a problem?

Second appointments are quite routine.  From all the women screened, about 10% are recalled. Of this 10% very few have any problems at all.