This in from Isle of Wight NHS Trust, in their own words. Ed
The campaign emphasises that increasing age is not a barrier to either developing cancer or effective treatment and a lump is not the only sign of breast cancer. Women should tell their General Practitioner (GP) if they notice any changes to their breasts, with a view to being referred to the breast clinic.
46 over 70s diagnosed on IW in last year
During 2014/15 there were 46 people on the Island 70yrs and over who were diagnosed with Breast Cancer.
Commenting on the importance of being breast aware, at any age, and the difference early detection can make, Mr Stephen Parker, Consultant Breast and General Surgeon, said:
“This year’s campaign has only been running for a few weeks and already the breast unit is seeing an increase in the number of referrals. It is encouraging that the message is getting out to the general public to be aware of changes in their breasts and seek a referral to the hospital if they are worried. I would, however, emphasise that a large proportion of patients who are seen in the breast clinic do not have breast cancer.”
Screened every three years
Even in women without symptoms, the NHS Breast Screening Programme invites all women aged between 47 and 70 for screening every three years provided they are registered with a GP. Anyone over the age of 70 is not automatically invited for screening but are encouraged to continue to contact their local Breast Screening Unit to make an appointment.
Mr Parker joined the breast team at St. Mary’s Hospital in January of this year and during this time the service has undergone a review to ensure that patients receive the right level of care at the right time in their care pathway and in line with national guidance. In response to feedback from staff and patients, important changes have been made to the pathway of care for patients with breast symptoms.
Referral process
Everyone referred to a specialist with breast symptoms will be seen within two weeks of referral by a GP. Previously, women with breast symptoms were referred by their GP to the breast team however they underwent imaging prior to their appointment.
This has changed as not all patients require imaging. All women are now seen for an initial consultation with a Breast Consultant before any investigations are carried out in order to eliminate any unnecessary investigations being performed. The Consultant will assess the patient and decide whether further tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, are necessary. If breast imaging is considered necessary, an appointment is made for the same day and the results are available on the day, wherever possible.
Separate clinics for new patients
There are now separate clinics for new patients, follow up and result appointments following a biopsy and appointment times have been extended to give patients more time to talk through the treatment options and address concerns they may have.
Speaking about the recent improvements made to the service, Mr Parker said:
“I am pleased to have joined a breast unit that is patient focused and forward thinking and wants to provide the best service possible for the women on the Island. The service reconfiguration has stream-lined the service so that patients can be seen promptly and the small number of patients who do have breast cancer have longer appointments to be able to talk through the diagnosis and plan their treatment.”
Anyone unsure about the Breast Screening Programme and would like further information can visit the National Breast Screening Programme website or telephone the Breast Screening Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital on 01983 534560.
