A WOMAN diagnosed with breast cancer during a routine mammogram is urging others not to ignore the opportunity to go for a screening. Latest breast screening figures released by the NHS show that around three in 10 women still do not take up invites to at

A WOMAN diagnosed with breast cancer during a routine mammogram is urging others not to ignore the opportunity to go for a screening.

Latest breast screening figures released by the NHS show that around three in 10 women still do not take up invites to attend appointments.

Now experts are predicting if all women attended screening when invited, some 600 extra lives could be saved each year.

Doreen Walker, from Potters Bar, was diagnosed with the disease 16 years ago, a year after retiring from the NHS.

Speaking out as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the 78-year-old said: "I feel very lucky to have been picked up by screening.

"I made sure I went for a mammogram every three years and honestly believe I wouldn't be here today if it wasn't for breast screening."

Doreen, who now volunteers in a Cancer Research UK charity shop, added: "I would certainly recommend that all women go for their appointments - it is vital for every woman and could save their life."

In England, the NHS breast screening programme diagnoses around 10,000 cases of breast cancer each year and saves around 1,400 lives.

Dr Lesley Walker, Cancer Research UK's director of cancer information, said: "Screening saves lives. Mammograms pick up the very early signs of breast cancer when it's much easier to treat.