Keeping Abreast !

12th February 2004

Health Select Committee,

Parliament Buildings,

­WELLINGTON.

Dear Sir/Madam,

There has been controversy surrounding the effectiveness in reducing mortality by screening women from 40 years.  This position has in the past couple of years, dramatically changed to a point of ample evidence that some have not yet caught up with. 

In younger woman there is a much higher rate of tumour dedifferientation i.e. changing very quickly to a more aggressive form. There needs to be more value given to mothers and preserving the age group who make a productive contribution through the early  detection of  breast cancer.

We strongly urge the Government to expand the Screening Programme to screen women from 40 years.

Yours faithfully,

T.A. SHORT

Chairperson