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Breast cancer screening?

Lucy Locket
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Hello, I have kidney cancer which has spread to both lungs and some lymph nodes. I have recently had a CT scan of my chest and abdomen. Today I received my 3 yearly breast cancer screening letter. Do I need to go to the screening too?

  • Hi Lucy Locket,

    Welcome to the Online Community, we hope that you are finding it a helpful space. I’m sorry to hear that you have kidney cancer, it must be a difficult time for you.

    Currently, CT scans are not used routinely for screening for breast cancer. It is true that some breast cancers have been detected when having a CT scan for another reason however they would be referred to the Breast Clinic for mammogram and further assessment, so a CT scan won’t replace a mammogram.

    Trials in America are currently looking at the value of CT scans for breast screening, but participants are being scanned lying face down.

    I do understand that you may not want to attend for another investigation, so please do discuss this with your Consultant or Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) who are fully aware of your medical history and can advise you accordingly.

    It sounds like you have a lot going on right now. You might find it helpful to have a chat with one of our nurses directly so feel free to give us a call or contact us via our webchat platform.

    With best wishes

    Fiona

    Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

    Ref: FS/CF

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