08/01/2026
💗 Why does routine breast screening stop at 71 in the UK? 💗
This question comes up a lot, and understandably so.
In the UK, women are automatically invited for NHS breast screening between the ages of 50 and 70
🩷Screening doesn’t actually “stop” at 71 — it’s just that automatic invitations stop.
The reasons are mainly about balance of benefit and risk, not because older women aren’t valued or at risk.
🔹 Evidence & benefit
Screening is offered where research shows it clearly saves the most lives overall. As we age, other health conditions become more common, and the benefit of routine screening is less clear for the whole population.
🔹 Risk of over-diagnosis
Screening can find very slow-growing cancers that may never cause harm, especially later in life. Treating these can sometimes do more harm than good.
🔹 Individual choice still matters
Women over 71 can still have breast screening every 3 years — you just need to self-refer by contacting your local breast screening unit or GP. This puts the choice back in your hands.
🔹 Symptoms always matter
At any age, if you notice changes (a lump, skin changes, ni**le changes, pain, or discharge), you should see your GP urgently. Symptoms are taken seriously regardless of age.
💡 The key message:
Screening doesn’t end at 71 — automatic invitations do. Awareness, choice, and prompt action continue for life.
Please share — this information can really reassure people 💗
