I recently turned 39 and was diagnosed with breast cancer. As I have discovered, breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, with around 55,900 people diagnosed every year, which is more than 150 people a day (Cancer Research UK). 

In my case, without symptoms, or family history of breast cancer, I chose to follow my home country's recommended age for initial mammogram and scan (35 to 40) and pay for a private check. I am thankful that this led to early detection and removal of the breast cancer. If I had waited until the currently recommended age of 50 for my first NHS breast screening, my story could have been different.

Lowering the age for a first mammogram will not only help with early detection for those that have developed breast cancer young(er), but it will also ensure that every patient has baseline breast images which will make it easier to understand and detect malignant breast tissue changes over time. Combining this with more frequent screenings can be a lifesaver for so many.

We must ensure that everyone has access to free yearly mammograms and scans starting at age 40, instead of the current status of age 50 with screenings every three years. Sign this petition now to demand that the recommended age for mammograms and scans be lowered to 40 and the frequency increased to yearly.