NHS Trials Early Breast Cancer Checks in England

A pioneering NHS trial in England may soon make breast cancer risk assessments available to women from age 30 instead of the current screening start at 50. Led by Dr. Sacha Howell at The Christie hospital and inspired by the late Girls Aloud singer Sarah Harding, the Bcan-Ray study uses DNA testing, health questionnaires, and low-dose mammograms to identify those at higher risk. Early findings show that nearly one in five women in their thirties are at increased risk, with many previously unaware. Identified women are given personalized advice on risk reduction and may be offered annual mammograms before 50. Breast cancer is the leading cause of death for UK women aged 35 to 50, with over 10,000 diagnoses and 2,000 deaths annually among those under 50. The study has raised hopes for a nationwide rollout, aiming for earlier detection and prevention.