Vanessa Feltz received widespread praise from This Morning viewers after she underwent a mammogram live on air as part of the NHS’s first-ever breast screening campaign. 

The 63-year-old journalist and broadcaster participated in the procedure on Monday to reassure viewers and help reduce fear and stigma surrounding breast cancer screenings.

Vanessa’s Powerful Message About Mammograms

During the segment, Vanessa aimed to demonstrate that mammograms are nothing to be afraid of. 

The procedure, which involves X-ray imaging of the breasts, is designed to detect early signs of cancer. 

Speaking directly to viewers while undergoing the screening, she described her experience in real time, hoping to encourage more women to attend their appointments.

As the mammographer carried out the procedure, Vanessa calmly explained how it felt. “It feels slightly squashed,” she admitted, but quickly reassured viewers, “But it certainly isn’t hurting at all. I wouldn’t even call it discomfort. I certainly wouldn’t call it pain. I’d say a little bit stretched, but as you can see, I’m perfectly happy talking to you fine. Certainly not in any kind of even remote discomfort, really. I’m fine.”

When the X-ray was taken, she compared the experience to a routine dental X-ray, explaining that the mammographer had to leave the room while the image was captured.

Highlighting the Importance of Early Detection

Before undergoing her own mammogram, Vanessa spoke with two women who shared their life-saving experiences with breast cancer screening. Both had gone for routine mammograms that led to an early diagnosis, which ultimately allowed them to receive timely treatment. Their stories underscored the importance of attending screenings when invited.

After completing the procedure, Vanessa turned to the camera with a heartfelt message: “If you were scared to come because you thought it would hurt, [there is] absolutely nothing to fear whatsoever.” She urged viewers who had received their invitations not to let fear prevent them from attending their appointments.

“Please don’t be scared,” she emphasized. “Nothing at all to worry about. I’m here to say, please go ahead, because this could just save your life.”

Praise from Viewers and Colleagues

Following Vanessa’s on-air mammogram, hosts Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley commended her bravery and willingness to share her experience with millions of viewers. However, Vanessa remained humble, dismissing any notion that she had done something extraordinary.

“I just want to show it’s not a big deal because it really isn’t,” she explained. “I’m not especially brave, I’m not at all heroic—just an ordinary person like everyone else. And honestly, there is nothing at all to fear.”

Her message struck a chord with viewers, many of whom took to social media to express their admiration.

One viewer wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Fair play to Vanessa!!! Love that woman.”

Another user echoed her sentiments, adding, “Fair play to Vanessa for doing this. It’s a little uncomfortable (literally for a few seconds) but not painful, and can save your life! #ThisMorning.”

Some social media users even questioned why a mammogram on live TV was considered controversial. One person tweeted, “I can’t believe people are horrified at the sight of a MAMMOGRAM on telly man, never seen a nip before?”

Others praised Vanessa for using her platform to raise awareness. “A big cheer for the great Vanessa Feltz for having a mammogram live on air. Brilliant. She’s smiling, but it’s a brave thing to do live. #ThisMorning,” one fan shared.

Another viewer added, “This is not a joking matter. Good on Vanessa for doing this live.”

A Push for More Women to Attend Screenings

The NHS has been actively working to increase participation in breast cancer screenings, particularly among women aged 50 to 71, who are invited for routine mammograms every three years. Vanessa’s participation in the live screening was part of this wider effort to encourage more women to take advantage of the service.

Michelle Kane, Director of Screening and Vaccination at NHS England, praised Vanessa’s decision to undergo the procedure on television.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Vanessa for raising the vital importance of breast screening on national TV,” Kane stated. “It’s fantastic that she took the time to share her experience so openly with viewers and talk directly to women about why breast screening can save lives, and what they can expect when they go for their appointment.”

Kane further encouraged women to seek medical advice if they notice any changes in their breasts, emphasizing the importance of early detection. “The NHS launched a new national campaign earlier this month to encourage more women to attend breast screening when invited, and if you are worried about any symptoms in the meantime, then please visit your GP.”

A Lasting Impact

By choosing to have her mammogram live on air, Vanessa Feltz played a crucial role in reducing fear and misinformation surrounding breast cancer screenings. Her willingness to share her experience helped demystify the process and reassured countless women watching at home.

Her message was clear: mammograms are quick, painless, and can be life-saving. Through her actions, she has encouraged many women to prioritize their health and take advantage of potentially life-saving screenings when invited.

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