Concern raised over Mayo mammogram screening delays

A member of the HSE West Forum has raised concerns with the authority over mammogram screening delays in Mayo.

Councillor Michael Kilcoyne said it has been brought to his attention that women who become eligible for screening for the first time are being left waiting 12 months for their appointments due to Covid.

The Castlebar-based representative stated: "I was shocked to learn that this is the case and that women in Mayo are now seeking their screening appointments in Galway.

"People who have contacted the HSE for appointments were informed that there is a waiting list of one year for this very important e-ray procedure that can detect breast cancer at a very early stage.

"Needless to say, this is an unacceptable situation and one that needs to be urgently addressed.

"I have written to the HSE about the matter and expect an response very soon."

A general statement on the matter on the HSE website outlined that women become eligible for breast screening once they reach the age of 50.

The statement continued: "Their first invitation will depend on when screening is available in their area. This is normally within two years of their 50th birthday.

"But due to Covid-19 some people's invitations for screening have been delayed by up to a year.

"Women may be 53 when their get your first invitation.

"If you were due to be screened in 2021, we will now aim to issue invitations in 2022.

"Your details should automatically be on our register. You can check that your name is on the register or update your details.

"Check your name is on the register or Freephone 1800 45 45 55

"The risk of breast cancer increases as you get older, all women between the ages of 50 and 69 are invited to take a mammogram every two years.

"The incidence and mortality from breast cancer in this age group means that it is effective to screen women between the ages of 50 and 69."