Written question asked by Chris Ruane (Labour) on Tuesday, 27 March 2012, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 April 2012. It was answered by Paul Burstow (Liberal Democrat) on Monday, 16 April 2012 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Breast Cancer

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what proportion of mammogram screenings for women who are under 50, pre menopausal and have dense breasts were analysed digitally in the latest period for which figures are available;

Answer: The report 'Breast Screening Programme, England 2010-11', published by the Health and Social Care Information Centre on 22 March 2012, shows that a total of 81,294 women aged 45 to 49 were screened in 2010-11, and that in April 2010, 29 out of 80 screening services were fully converted to digital technology. Since this date, there has been a significant increase in the number of digital screening systems in use and 48 out of 80 services have how implemented the technology.Statistical reporting for NHS Breast Screening Programme does not record whether women were screened using film or digital systems, breast density or breast tissue type.

Secondary information