How does the location of a satellite screening site affect uptake?

Introduction

Following the announcement of the Cancer Reform Strategy and the anticipated introduction of digital mammography, the South West London Breast Screening Service has investigated the effect of accessibility and deprivation on uptake of screening invitation in order to inform decisions on where to site static and mobile screening facilities in future. There are currently five static sites (hospital and commercial accommodation) and one mobile van. It is known that the physical environment of the screening site may affect uptake, but the effects of poor accessibility and local deprivation are not clear.

Methods

The local eligible population was analysed at Super Output Area level, equivalent to approximately 20 postcodes or 200 eligible women. Information on local deprivation (Index of Multiple Deprivation 2004), uptake (2004 to 2007), and travel time by public transport was correlated for each Super Output Area.

Results

There is a weak correlation between the Index of Multiple Deprivation and uptake. The mean travel time to all screening sites was 37 minutes but there is no correlation between travel time and uptake. Uptake is lower in Super Output Areas closer to central London. This may reflect high population mobility, which leads to inaccurate information about the name and address of women eligible for screening.