Written question asked by Bob Russell (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 24 October 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 26 October 2006. It was answered by Baroness Winterton of Doncaster (Labour) on Monday, 6 November 2006 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Breast Cancer

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what her policy is on the screening of women aged 70 and above for breast cancer; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: There is currently insufficient evidence for inviting women aged over 70 for screening, but research is underway for the advisory committee on breast cancer screening. A final report is due in the next few weeks, and the committee will advise us on a way forward.Women aged over 70 are offered three yearly screening on request. Those who have already participated in the programme should be informed of this right after the age of 70.We have collaborated with Age Concern to produce the leaflet, ““Over 70? You are still entitled to breast screening””. The leaflet is widely available in general practitioner surgeries, health centres, breast screening units and Age Concern outlets.

Secondary information