More women stepping up for breast screening checks

Breast-screening attendance has risen across the South East, as figures showed that nearly 19,000 more women were screened last year than the year before.

Data from NHS South East showed 347,407 women in the region had a potentially life-saving mammogram during 2024-2025, compared with 328,405 between 2023-2024.

Appointments are being offered at local screening units and mobile vans, and a new permanent screening unit has opened at Crawley Hospital in West Sussex.

The NHS said some people, particularly those with physical disabilities, had faced challenges accessing screening, and previously needed to travel to Worthing Hospital or rely on mobile units with steps.

Dr Daghni Rajasingam said: "Early diagnosis saves lives, and making screening easier to access is a key part of that."

The region's medical director said that new diagnostic centres, mobile units and longer opening hours, including weekends and evenings, were making it easier for people to attend their appointments.

"If you get an invite, please attend," she said. "And if you've missed one, it's quick and simple to rearrange so please don't put off coming forward."

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.