Breast cancer is the single most common cancer in the United Kingdom, accounting for 16% of all cancer incidences and 7% of all cancer deaths. Fortunately, the natural progression of this malignancy can be beneficially changed through mammographic screening techniques, which enable early detection and treatment of benign and malignant breast disease. However, the success of screening programmes depends not only on the analytical specificity and sensitivity of the screening test itself, but also its ability to attract the "at risk" population. In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service Breast Screening Programme attracts about three quarters of the invited population every three years. In the last screening round (2007-2010), all but one region reported a triennial coverage of more than 75%; London was the exception, reporting a regional coverage of 69%. London consistently fails to meet the national target.