Breast Cancer Screening Uptake in London Falls Short of National Standards
In London, the participation rate for breast cancer screening remains alarmingly low, with only 62.8% of eligible women attending in 2023-24. This figure is significantly below the NHS’s minimum target and reflects ongoing disparities in healthcare access across different demographics.
Health Committee Investigates Low Participation Rates
On January 22, 2025, the Health Committee will convene to address the factors contributing to London’s lacklustre screening rates. The session will explore current NHS initiatives aimed at enhancing awareness, the effectiveness of recent campaigns, and potential strategies that could be employed by the Mayor and various stakeholders to boost attendance. The Committee will also deliberate on plans to transfer the responsibility of breast cancer screening commissioning to London’s Integrated Care Boards, set to occur in April 2026.
Panel Experts to Provide Insight
The discussion will feature three panels of experts who bring diverse perspectives from the healthcare and community sectors:
- Panel 1 (10:00 – 10:55)
- Helen Dickens, Chief Support Officer, Breast Cancer Now
- Lee Dibben, Education & Policy Manager, OUTpatients
- Leeanne Graham, Advocacy Lead, Black Women Rising
- Panel 2 (11:00 – 11:55)
- Dr Josephine Ruwende, Consultant in Public Health; Cancer Screening Lead, NHS England – London Region
- Zara Gross, Programme Manager – Early Diagnosis, South East London Cancer Alliance
- Dr Will Teh, Consultant Radiologist and Director, North London Breast Screening Service
- Panel 3 (12:00 – 12:55)
- Emma Strain, Customer Director, Transport for London
- Nicole Valentinuzzi, Assistant Director of External Relations, Greater London Authority
Public Health Messaging Focus
The final segment of the meeting will centre on public health communication strategies across the Transport for London (TfL) network. It will examine the potential of TfL’s advertising platforms to support health awareness campaigns and discuss any constraints posed by existing advertising contracts.
Meeting Details and Public Access
The meeting will be held at City Hall, Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE, starting at 10am. Members of the public and media are welcome to attend, with options to view the proceedings live via webcast or on YouTube.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/what-london-assembly-does/london-assembly-press-releases/london-behind-breast-cancer-screening
