Ageist healthcare services put older women at greater risk of breast cancer, says Help the Aged

8 October 2008

Reacting to a survey published in the British Journal of Cancer, which shows many older women are not aware that growing older can be a major risk factor for the disease, Kate Jopling, Head of Public Affairs for Help the Aged, says:

“All too often older people get a rough deal from our healthcare services and these worrying findings show breast cancer services are no exception. Women aged 70 and over aren’t invited for regular screening checks - this sends entirely the wrong message to older women who are often unaware that they are at greater risk of breast cancer than others. This lack of awareness puts older women at risk.

“When it comes to breast cancer treatment, it’s imperative that doctors and health professionals see the condition - rather than the age - of their patients. Age discrimination in healthcare services raises its ugly head all too often. When it comes to breast cancer, this is demonstrated not only in the lack of screening of older women but also in the treatment they ultimately receive.

“The Government has announced it intends to make age discrimination in health services illegal – this needs to happen without delay. Older people have been waiting too long for equal treatment and the example of breast cancer shows us that for the sake of their health alone we must act now.”

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