A mobile breast screening unit will open its doors to patients in the courtyard of the Basildon Centre on Wednesday 7 October 2020, for one year—screening those invited by South Essex Breast Screening Service.
The Breast Screening Unit is a partnership with the South Essex Breast Screening Service, who will run the day-to-day operation of the unit, with Southend Hospital, who are part of Mid and South Essex NHS foundation trust, providing administrative support, and Basildon Council providing the land.
Every year around 11,500 women and 80 men die from breast cancer in the UK and it is a leading cause of death in women under 50.
Councillor Kerry Smith, Deputy Leader of Basildon Council said:
“I have campaigned to bring back this service to Basildon town centre. This is a life-saving service which can detect very small tumours.
“These tumours are far more treatable at this early stage of development, leading to fewer lives being lost to cancer
“Having access to a service like this within easy reach of the town centre could be the difference between life and death for some. When residents receive a letter for an appointment, I urge them to see it through and attend a breast screening.
“We are all well aware of the current pressures facing the NHS right now, and this early detection really could save someone’s life.”
Basildon Council has hosted the breast screening unit in the Basildon Centre courtyard in previous years, and in August the council backed the move to bring it back for the next year. The courtyard will provide a safe and secure environment for the discreet venue whose services will be available on an invitation only basis.
