Hospital staff are urging trans and non-binary people to undergo regular mammograms, reminding the community that their “health matters”. 

A mammogram, or breast cancer screening, is an X-ray used to check a person’s breasts or chest for signs of cancer. Anyone with breast tissue can get breast cancer, no matter their gender, including women, men, trans and non-binary people, as per NHS England. 

Experts from Humberside Breast Screening Service said that many trans and non-binary patients did not attend their appointments due to anxiety. 

Leasley Peacock, programme manager for the service, said: “If you are worried or concerned, you can contact the service first or speak to our staff on the day so we can allay any fears or take any steps to put you at ease.”

Peacock added: “Breast screening saves lives as early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

“Transgender and non-binary individuals are no exception – your health matters.”

Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said trans men and women over the age of 50 who are registered as female with their GP should undergo breast cancer screening every three years. 

The NHS Trust said that non-binary people, AFAB people who have not had their breast tissue removed, and AMAB people who were receiving oestrogen HRT for at least two years, should also attend breast screening appointments.

It added that anyone registered as male with their GP will not be called for screening, but can request an appointment.

People AMAB who were not on oestrogen HRT and those AFAB who have had top surgery would not be called for screening, as the risk of breast cancer is low.

Breast cancer awareness charity CoppaFeel! says that everyone should check their chest for changes every month, even if they have had top surgery. For a step-by-step on checking your chest, click here.

You can contact the Humberside Breast Screening Service for more information or speak to your GP. 

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