A systematic review of people’s experiences of breast screening
Download (PDF 984.64 KB)Summary of report content
Wessex Voices were commissioned by Public Health commissioning, NHS England and Improvement South East, to conduct a systematic review of breast screening literature. The aim was to understand the views of people eligible for breast screening and identify gaps in knowledge and areas where further insight is needed.
Between April and July 2021, Wessex Voices reviewed literature compiled from a variety of sources published since 2000. QA total of 105 sources were reviewed, 83 published between 2011 and 2021, and 18 between 2001 and 2010. 4 Peer reviewed articles from before 2000 are also included.
Many of the findings suggest that further personalisation to reflect people’s experiences according to their age, protected characteristics and other demographics would benefit the whole screening process. This would improve people’s awareness and understanding of the breast health screening, as well as improved experiences of screening. In turn this could enhance uptake, especially with groups where the reis currently low uptake, and reduce inequalities.
The report makes 18 recommendations, covering: NHSE/I National Breast Screening Programme, Public Health commissioning and Screening and Immunisation Teams (SITs), Cancer Alliances, and Breast Screening Providers.