Newly published statistics from the National Health Service show a large increase in the number of cancers detected by breast screening in the UK.

In 2003/2004, more than 14% more cancers were detected compared to the previous year, with more than 11,000 women having breast cancer detected and treated following screening for the disease, according to the NHS data.

Since 2001 the total number of cancers detected through breast screening has risen by nearly one-third. Of the 11,000 cancers detected last year, nearly half were smaller cancers which could only be picked up through screening.

Health Secretary John Reid said, "We know that detecting cancer early helps save lives. Last year, over 11,000 women had breast cancer detected and treated more quickly than they otherwise would have, thanks to the NHS breast screening program. In fact, nearly half of these wouldn't have been detected at all without screening."

He added: "The latest figures are further evidence that our NHS breast screening program is one of the best in the world and is making a real difference to over a million women by giving them peace of mind that they are being checked for this disease every three years."

The increase in the number of cancers detected is attributed to the introduction of two-view mammography, which means taking two views of each breast at every screen instead of just at the first. As of December 2004, more than 95% of local screening units were using this technique, the NHS reports. Investing £11.5 million for extending the breast screening program to women aged 65-70, coupled with an extra £11.4 million for equipment, has also helped to significantly improve the number of cancers detected, according to the NHS.

Julietta Patnick, director of the NHS Cancer Screening Programmes, said: "Following the implementation of two-view mammography we are seeing an improvement in the rate of cancer detection. We are also seeing a significant increase in the total numbers of women screened due to the expansion of the program to regularly invite women up to and including age 70.

"The successful implementation of age extension and two-view mammography are proof of our commitment to continuing to provide women with access to a high quality service, and I would strongly urge all women aged 50 and over to attend for regular breast screening every three years."

TriPath wins SurePath supply pact

TriPath Imaging (Burlington, North Carolina) reported that Medical Solutions, its distributor in the UK, has won an exclusive five-year contract to supply the Cumbria and Lancashire Strategic Health Authority with TriPath's SurePath liquid-based Pap test.

"We are very pleased that the UK continues to recognize TriPath Imaging as a leader in liquid-based cytology," said Paul Sohmer, MD, president, CEO and chairman, of TriPath. "We look forward to continue growing our business in the UK."

TriPath manufactures solutions to improve the management of cancer, including detection, diagnosis, staging and treatment. TriPath Oncology, a wholly owned subsidiary of TriPath Imaging, develops molecular diagnostic and pharmacogenomic products and services for malignant melanoma and cancers of the cervix, breast, ovary and prostate.