Published on 12 March 2021
A new van helping to detect the early signs of breast cancer has hit the road.
The £350,000 vehicle is fitted out with the most up-to-date screening equipment and replaces an old mobile unit that was nearing the end of its useful life.
East Kent Hospital Trust will replace its other two screening vans later this year, and all will continue to travel around east Kent offering convenient appointments to women close to their homes.
Fiona McPartlin, principal radiographer for breast imaging, said: “Our mobile screening vans provide an invaluable service as part of the NHS breast screening programme, so we’re delighted to have taken delivery of this brand new vehicle.
“As one of three mobile units it will screen around 12,000 women each year for the early signs of breast cancer.
“The earlier the disease is detected, the better chance someone has of successful treatment so it is important women can attend their screening appointment at a location that is convenient to them – thanks to the vans we can bring the service to the community rather than asking people to come to us.”
The screening programme is for women who do not have any symptoms of breast cancer. Anyone who finds a lump, or notices a change in the shape or appearance of their breasts, should contact their GP.
