Mobile BreastCheck Unit Arrives in Sligo
A BreastCheck mobile screening unit has set up on the grounds of Sligo Rovers Football Club, offering complimentary breast screening to women in the area. The service is designed to reach women in their 50s and 60s, with automatic registration and invitations typically issued when women reach the age of 52 or 53.
Why BreastScreening Matters
Breast screening uses a mammogram to detect signs of breast cancer at a stage when treatment is most effective. Dr. Alissa Connors, BreastCheck Lead Clinical Director, emphasizes that screening can save lives by identifying cancers before they can be felt.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
BreastCheck generally offers a screening mammogram to women aged 50-69 every two years. While most results are normal, a small proportion—about 1 in 20—may be called back for further assessment. Of those assessed, approximately seven in every 50 are offered treatment for breast cancer after evaluation.
Practical Steps to Maximize Availability
To ensure every appointment slot is used efficiently, BreastCheck asks women to follow a few simple steps. If you cannot attend your booked slot, inform the service so the slot can be offered to someone else. If Sligo town is not convenient, call the number on your appointment letter to rearrange screening at another unit. In addition, longer appointments or extra support can be arranged for people with special needs.
First-Time Invitations and Flexible Scheduling
For women aged 53 to 69 who have never attended BreastCheck, the team encourages them to call. If there are cancellations, they may be able to fit in. BreastCheck also highlights that those with symptoms should contact their GP rather than attending routine screening.
Understanding Local and National Context
Gráinne Gleeson, BreastCheck Programme Manager, notes that Ireland has conducted over 2.5 million mammograms since screening began. With population growth, around 100,000 more women are eligible today than six years ago. To address demand, BreastCheck is expanding access through innovation and prioritizing those who have waited longest.
Screening Timelines and Priorities
The goal is to offer a first screening by age 52, with some cases adjusted to 53 depending on local screening schedules. About 70% of women are being offered a screening within the target two-year window, while the program continues to add sessions and recruit staff to reduce wait times and improve coverage. The service emphasizes a holistic approach—from initial screening through assessment and, if necessary, treatment. EUREF accreditation underlines a commitment to high-quality standards in breast screening.
How to Check Your Status and Book
To verify your BreastCheck status or to book an appointment, visit hse.ie/breastcheck or call 1800 45 55 55. The mobile unit in Sligo represents the ongoing effort to bring convenient, free screening to communities across Ireland.
Take action today: If you’re in the eligible age range and have not yet attended BreastCheck, consider booking during this mobile unit’s visit or arrange an alternative site. Early detection remains a cornerstone of effective treatment—and BreastCheck is positioned to help women stay informed and protected.
