Review breast screening ages in Wales and improve early detection and access for woman under 50
Open for signatures until 4 May 2027.
266 signatures
- More than 250 signatures: considered by the Petitions CommitteeReached
- More than 10,000 signatures: considered for a debate in the SeneddNot reached
I was diagnosed with Grade 3 invasive breast cancer at just 42. In Wales, routine breast screening starts at 50, yet younger women can develop breast cancer too. Around 13% of breast cancer diagnoses in Wales between 2020 and 2022 were in women under 50. I am asking the Welsh Government to review screening eligibility from age 30, including risk-based screening and improved awareness. Every woman deserves the chance of early detection, regardless of age.
More details
The National Audit of Primary Breast Cancer 2025 reported that approximately 13% of breast cancer diagnoses in Wales between 2020 and 2022 occurred in women under 50, including around 3% in women under 40.
These figures highlight that breast cancer affects women who are not routinely invited for NHS breast screening.
I am asking the Welsh Government to commission an evidence-based review of screening eligibility from age 30, considering age-appropriate screening methods, individual risk assessments and earlier access for women at increased risk.
I also want improved breast cancer education, greater awareness of symptoms and timely assessment for younger women with breast concerns.
Any review should consider the benefits and potential harms of screening, including false positives and unnecessary procedures.
My goal is to help improve early detection and ensure younger women across Wales are not overlooked.
Too Young to Screen, Not Too Young for Cancer.
Signatures by constituency
The Senedd's petitions website lists 229 of the 266 signatures under a Senedd constituency.
| Constituency | Signatures |
|---|---|
| Fflint Wrecsam | 129 |
| Gwynedd Maldwyn | 90 |
| Clwyd | 8 |
| Bangor Conwy Môn | 1 |
| Caerdydd Penarth | 1 |