Organisation of a national screening programme.

Since March 1988 Health Authorities and Health Boards in the United Kingdom have been phasing in the National Health Service Breast Screening Programme (NHSBSP) which implements the recommendations of the Forrest Report. The Report examined the evidence from a number of countries on the value of screening and concluded that, for women aged 50 and over, screening for breast cancer can reduce mortality by up to one-third. The experience gained in setting up the programme has led to a second document in which are detailed 7 requirements considered essential for high quality and ultimate success.