Very High Risk Breast Surveillance Screening

You may be eligible if you have been assessed by a specialist in genetics, family history or oncology and are considered Women may have an increased risk of developing breast cancer because of a genetic disorder (usually BRCA) or because they had radiotherapy to their chest when younger.

In September 2020, the programme title was changed to reflect national guidance. Although the title changed from the ‘Higher Risk Breast Surveillance Screening Programme’ to the ‘Very High Risk Breast Surveillance Screening Programme’, this does not indicate any increase in cancer risk for those in the programme.

The type of screening you are offered depends on your age and the reason you are considered to be at very high risk of breast cancer.

You may be offered:

• an annual mammogram
• an annual MRI scan
• both a mammogram and an MRI scan

You may also begin screening at a younger age than women on the routine breast screening programme.

Most women attend the Specialist Imaging Unit at Antrim Area Hospital for surveillance screening.

If you only require mammography, you may be able to arrange your appointment at your local screening unit for surveillance screening.

If you are concerned about your family history or think you may have an increased risk of breast cancer, talk to your GP.

Your GP can refer you to a Family History Clinic, where specialists will assess your risk and decide whether genetic testing or very high risk surveillance screening is appropriate.