Our Breast Unit offers assessment of patients referred from their GP with breast concerns, offers surveillance for patients known to be at high risk of breast cancer as well as the Cambridge and Huntingdon Breast Screening Service.
Further information regarding the breast screening service can be found on the Cambridge and Huntingdon Breast Screening Service website.
The rapid diagnosis clinic aims for same day assessment encompassing consultation with a clinician and if needed, imaging and further investigation.
Referrals
Referrals to the Cambridge Breast Unit can only be made through your general practitioner (GP).
Your GP will have full details of our referral policy, copies of which are available for GPs from the Cambridge Breast Unit or from our primary care liaison office.
For each condition, we have informed GPs of the Breast Unit’s policy on referral and sent them information leaflets for their patients.
We also have published information for GPs to give to their patients who do not require referral to the Breast Unit.
High Risk Screening appointments are arranged following referral via the GP and the clinical genetics department.
What to expect at a breast clinic appointment
At the breast clinic, you will meet one of the doctors or nurse practitioners who will ask you some questions about your medical history before carrying out a physical examination of your breasts.
You may then have mammograms (x-rays) of the breast, an ultrasound scan of the breast and if needed a biopsy of the breast (under local anaesthetic) where a small piece of tissue is removed to be examined under the microscope. This will all be discussed with you during the course of your appointment.
In most cases, these tests will all be carried out during your visit to the clinic however in some cases you will be asked to return at another time.
The majority of people who are referred to the breast unit do not have cancer and have either normal or non-cancerous (benign) changes and for this reason, not everyone who attends will need mammograms, ultrasound or biopsy.
You are able to bring someone with you to the clinic appointment should you wish, unless specifically advised against this by the clinic team beforehand because of hospital restrictions at the time of your appointment.
Breast aware
It is important to visit a GP as soon as possible if you notice any changes to your breasts.
Checking your breasts or chest regularly helps you learn what looks and feels normal for you. This makes it easier to notice any changes that could be a sign of a condition such as breast cancer. You should try to check your breasts or chest about once a month.
It is also important to remember that breast cancer also affects men.
Further advice can be found in the breast cancer now, know your breasts guide. (opens in a new tab)