Figures uncovered by Lynne Featherstone MP reveal 10,000 women are waiting for a breast screening because of the suspension in North London Breast Screening service “due to system process errors”.

The worrying statistic, revealed in enquiries by the Hornsey & Wood Green MP, shows the extent of the backlog since the service that covers Haringey, Barnet, Brent, Enfield, Harrow and the southern half of West Hertfordshire closed its doors last December following the discovery in errors in its screening process.

Ms. Featherstone says:

“Regular breast screening is essential in catching any anomalies as early as possible to maximise the chances of a successful treatment.Therefore delays in clearing this backlog could put lives at risk.

“This is extremely worrying and I am calling upon the authority to re-start screening as a matter of urgency and have sought assurances from the minister that the backlog is dealt with as quickly as possible.”

Cllr Richard Wilson, Lib Dem Haringey Health Spokesperson adds:

“Of course, if there have been errors in the screening process this must be fixed. However, months down the lines it is simply not acceptable that women are left without a key service in the fight against breast cancer.”