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Understanding screening uptake in England

A mammographer in maroon scrubs, and a woman with dark hair demonstrating a mammogram screening.

Complete a survey to help researchers understand what can make women in England more or less likely to attend their breast cancer screening appointment

What’s the project about?

In England, a third of breast cancers are found by breast cancer. However, only 70% of women attended their breast screening appointment. This means that there are potentially over 2,000 breast cancers that weren’t found through screening.

Researchers want to understand why some women go for NHS breast screening and others delay, miss or decline it. This study looks at women’s experiences of breast screening, practical access, information, beliefs and feelings.

Who’s organising it?

Name of project lead: Brian Fenech

Job title: PhD Researcher

Organisation: King’s College London

Email address: brian.fenech@kcl.ac.uk

Who can take part?

You can take part if you:

  • Are a woman

  • Are aged 50 to 71

  • Live in England

  • Have never been diagnosed with breast cancer

  • Have not had a double mastectomy

Why do you want me to be involved?

By taking part, you’ll help the researchers understand what makes screening easier or harder for women.

What will you ask me to do?

The researchers would like you to complete and anonymous online survey. It should take about 15–20 minutes.

You’ll be asked about bit about yourself, your health beliefs and your experiences of breast screening. You can skip any question and stop at any time before submitting.

At the end, you can choose whether to leave separate contact details for an optional follow-up interview. These are not linked to your survey answers, so your survey will remain anonymous.

How do I get involved?

Please complete the survey. At the beginning of the survey you’ll be asked to read the participant information sheet and complete the consent form.

If you have any questions, or need help to access it, please email brian.fenech@kcl.ac.uk.

When’s the deadline?

31 December 2026

Get involved

Complete the survey and help the researchers understand what can make women in England more or less likely to attend their breast cancer screening appointment

Take part