WOMEN in Bury aged 50 to 70 are being urged to accept their invitation for NHS breast screening after a record response in the borough last year.

In 2013, Bury had the highest uptake rates for breast screening in Greater Manchester, while 77.5 per cent of eligible women have been screened in the last three years.

However, according to leading health figures, more still needs to be done to raise awareness.

Dr Liane Harris, local GP and clinical lead for cancer at Bury Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK so it’s important that women attend an appointment.

“Although about 12,000 women in the UK die of breast cancer every year, survival from the disease has improved over the past 40 years, and now more than three out of four women diagnosed with breast cancer are living 10 and more years later.

"This is because of early detection through mammograms, high volume specialised breast clinics and better treatments.

“Screening does not prevent you from getting breast cancer but means treatment can be provided early to give the best chance of tackling the cancer so giving the best chances of survival.

"We would ask, please accept your invitation and make an appointment. It could save your life."

Breast screening aims to save lives by detecting breast cancer at an early stage.

It is offered to women aged 50 to 70 every three years, with some older and younger women also screened as part of studies.

A visit to a breast screening unit normally takes about half an hour and involves an x-ray test called a mammogram, which is conducted by a female practitioner.

At the appointment, the practitioner will ask about any symptoms or history of breast cancer, explain the mammogram procedure, and answer any questions.

To book a breast screening appointment: call 01204 390397.