The UK breast screening programme offers screening to women over the age of 65 only if they request it. The policy has attracted widespread criticism, as mortality from the disease is greatest in women over 65. This Welsh study found that 8 per cent of their sample drawn from this age group had previously been screened. About half of the nonattenders stated that they would be prepared to be screened. These women were more likely to be married, separated or divorced, of higher social class, living with a spouse and suffering from anxiety. The authors suggest that special measures would be required to encourage attendance by women who are disabled or depressed. 26 references.