Annual breast screening missed following radiotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma

This week NHS England has contacted 1,487 women in England who should have been referred for annual breast screening but may not have been. This affects women who received radiotherapy treatment between the ages of 10 and 35 inclusive, above the waist for Hodgkin lymphoma in the years 1962 to 2003. Due to their higher risk of developing breast cancer, they should have been invited annually for breast cancer checks.

This announcement will obviously cause worry for those affected and their families, and we strongly advise anyone who receives a letter to accept their MRI screening offer when invited, which is likely to be in the next few months.

NHS England has set up a dedicated helpline to support those affected, or those who think they may have been, on 0345 877 8962 from 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Friday and weekends 10am to 4pm (local charges apply).

Everyone treated after 2003 would have been automatically enrolled for annual screening, but for reassurance NHS England is checking this group. If you are currently having radiotherapy for Hodgkin lymphoma, or are due to start, and are worried about the risk please speak to your medical team. Screening usually starts 8 to 15 years after treatment as this is when the risk emerges. You can find out more about radiotherapy on our website as well as information about risks and side-effects of lymphoma treatment.

We’re here to provide information and support to anyone impacted or concerned by the news. You can call our free Helpline on 0808 808 5555 and find out more about other support we can offer. 

More information can be found at NHS England.