Improving the uptake of breast screening: one initiative in East London

Attendance for breast screening in inner city areas is considerably below the national target. Previous research in Tower Hamlets, East London, indicated that a personal approach from the GP surgery could encourage women to attend. Practices were sent a list of women who had not responded to two invitations. Receptionists and health advocates were trained to enable them to contact women. The Breast Screening Mobile Unit remained on site so that women could make appointments to attend. Uptake for practices participating in the scheme was 55%, and 31% for those who did not participate.