New breast assessment service for under 40s launched in Newry

A new Consultant-led Breast Assessment Service for women under 40 has been launched at Mourne Private Clinic in Newry. It offers specialist assessment to younger women who have noticed a breast change or have concerns about their breast health.

The service is based at Bridge Street in Newry and is led by a multidisciplinary team made up of Consultant Breast Surgeon Dr Reem Salman, Consultant Radiologist Dr Austin Donnelly and Specialist Breast Nurses Eimear McGeown and Helen Fee.

It has been developed for women under 40 who require specialist clinical assessment. Symptoms may include a new breast lump or swelling, persistent or unexplained breast pain, nipple changes or discharge, skin changes, or another change that is unusual for the individual.

Breast assessment for younger women can differ from that provided to older age groups. Each woman will be assessed according to her individual symptoms and clinical requirements. Where appropriate, breast imaging can form part of the assessment, with the Consultant Radiologist working alongside the Consultant Breast Surgeon and Specialist Breast Nurse to provide a coordinated approach to care. An ultrasound guided biopsy can also be provided during the appointment if it is deemed necessary. The aim is to give women clear information, specialist advice and an appropriate pathway for any further investigation or management that may be required.

Mourne Private Clinic Owner and Director Lisa Hughes said: "Finding a change in your breast can naturally cause concern. We wanted to develop a service specifically for younger women that provides timely access to experienced breast specialists and a clear pathway for assessment.

"Our focus at Mourne Private Clinic is on providing professional, compassionate care."

Women should seek medical advice if they notice a new or unexplained change in their breast. While many breast symptoms will have a benign cause, it is important not to ignore a change or delay seeking appropriate medical assessment. The new service is intended specifically for symptomatic women under the age of 40 and is separate from routine population breast screening programmes.

Mourne Private Clinic provides a growing range of independent consultant-led clinics, diagnostic imaging and healthcare services. Its diagnostic services include ultrasound, X-ray, DEXA bone-density scanning, prenatal ultrasound and private blood testing. The new service provides another specialist healthcare option for women from Newry, South Down, County Armagh and the wider border region.

For further information or to enquire about an appointment, contact Mourne Private Clinic on Bridge Street, Newry, on 028 3026 3712 or visit www.mourneprivateclinic.com.