Current status: Answered by Jenni Minto on 5 January 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what information it has regarding the recorded number of women who cannot undergo a complete mammography due to mobility impairments or restrictions.
The Scottish Government does not collate information nationally on the number of women who cannot undergo a complete mammography due to mobility impairments or restrictions. Individual screening centres hold this information as women are requested to contact them with details of any accessibility needs so that their visit can be planned. This ensures an appropriate appointment is allocated for those who can participate in screening, and may include extended appointment time or mobile hoist access for wheelchair users. Once the requirements are recorded, adjustments for the next appointment will be made in advance of the appointment being issued.
The breast screening programme is committed to improving accessibility, and therefore continues to monitor any innovations and research that could increase accessibility for women with mobility impairments or restrictions. In addition, for women who are unable to have a mammogram but are considered at very high risk of breast cancer, an MRI can be used for screening.
It remains important that women who are unable to participate in breast screening speak to their GP if they notice any possible signs of breast cancer. A GP can determine whether they should be referred for diagnostic testing using methods which are suitable for women who are unable to participate in breast screening. Details of the possible signs of breast cancer can be found on NHS Inform.