Breast Cancer screening for over 70's

Did you know that breast cancer screening is not routinely offered for women over 71 years of age?

Under the age of 70, you are automatically offered screening (mammogram) every 3 years but after this you need to self-refer and contact them to make your own appointments.

Breast cancer screening is a crucial aspect of early detection and treatment, particularly for women over the age of 70. In Buckinghamshire, the National Health Service (NHS) provides breast screening services to help identify potential issues before they develop into more serious conditions.

Listen to Penny one of our patients on how to self refer at The University Hospital Breast Care Unit in Milton Keynes

Penny's Journey

What I felt when I was diagnosed.

It came as an absolute complete shock to me to be diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a very overwhelming. I don’t remember it all to this day. Shock more than anything is what I felt . I could not process it all. Despite knowing it might be cancer .

How my skin and hair and looks made me feel.

We had just started the pandemic and just about to go into lockdown. So I knew it was going to be a problem to get things I needed and more importantly where was I going to get my hair cut. It was explained to me that I would have chemotherapy and I seem to remember being more concerned about my skin than my hair. The hardest part for me was losing my eyelashes and especially my eyebrows, because they define your face and I felt if I was fading away and losing my identity . Skincare for me was going to be natural . What I used on my hair and skin became very important because that was in my control. I tried to get my hair cut but several salons wouldn’t do it and closed the door because I was too much of a risk with starting chemotherapy. That is until I met Tina . Tina guided me through it all and how to cut my hair . I will never forget that.

What have I learnt along the road to recovery..

I have learnt so many things .

I’ve learnt to take each day as it comes and not to think too far ahead. I like to live for the moment. Every one is different and deals with it in their way. Cancer is not one size fits all, and comes with many different challenges before , during and afterwards. It’s important to keep moving and take time for your wellness. I absolutely love dancing and going out for long walks.

How I help to sign post patients in to additional services.

"During my time during and after cancer I was asked by different organisations if I would be interested in doing talks,videos and blogs to inspire others who find themselves under immense stress. I wanted to use my personality and own experience in a positive way to support the next person behind me. Networking and finding out what is out there is what I am passionate about. I recently attended a NHS pathfinder event for cancer awareness and was able to signpost ladies (and gentlemen) directly to the breast unit because I was asked to promote the importance of breast screening for the over 70’s .

I had the opportunity to work with Penny during a recent Bletchley Pathfinder Cancer Awareness event, her contributions were significant and throughout she demonstrated effective stakeholder engagement, organisational and interpersonal skills. Penny also supported student volunteers who participated in a Mental Health and Wellbeing community event. Her talent for building meaningful connections makes her an asset to any health and wellbeing initiative."

Zoe

Integrated Neighbourhood Support Manager

Importance of Screening

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, and although the risk can increase with age, there is still insufficient evidence that this is the case and could lead to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Women over 70 are encouraged to continue regular screening, as the risk of developing breast cancer continues to increase with age.

How Screening Works

A screening mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast that can detect abnormalities and it usually takes a few weeks to receive the results. If any abnormalities are detected, further tests may be required.

Addressing Concerns

If you have concerns about any discomfort during the mammogram you can speak with the healthcare providers beforehand but rest assured the procedure is quick and designed to minimise discomfort.

Skin Issues Post-Chemotherapy

For individuals who have undergone chemotherapy, skin issues can be a common and distressing side effect. You may be experiencing a range of skin problems, including dryness, sensitivity and rashes. It will be important to you to understand how to manage these issues to improve the quality of life during your recovery.

Some of the medical brands we recommend are:

Tiwa skin regime and scalp

Seavite

Neo Genesis 

Obaji     

We would also like to inform you that the Oxfam manager at the main sorting office in Milton Keynes has donated 2 large sack fulls of Masectomy bra pad infills for us to give away. Patients can come over on a Sunday and help themselves.

Please contact us for support and advice.