The Argus has launched a campaign to prevent breast cancer services being moved out of Brighton and Hove.

Women living in Brighton and Hove are currently treated at the Nigel Porter Unit for Breast Care - but on October 16 a decision will be made on whether to move the service to a hospital in Haywards Heath.

Health bosses say the move is necessary for the service to improve and expand to meet Government targets.

However, if the proposals go ahead, more than 2,500 women each year will have to make the 17-mile journey to Haywards Heath - fuelling fears that many women would not keep their appointments due to the increased distance.

Now The Argus aims to Keep Breast Care in Brighton with its campaign and is asking readers to give their support by writing to health chiefs and signing its petition demanding the proposal be thrown out.

In an editorial comment, the paper said: "Already hundreds of women put their lives at risk each year by failing to keep appointments at the unit. This figure could rise if they have to go to Haywards Heath.

"Consultants and hospital managers may not find it too inconvenient to drive as part of their jobs.

"But it is not always so easy for patients or their loved ones visiting them, especially for the many thousands who do not have access to a car.

"What's even crazier about this proposal is that women needing chemotherapy or radiotherapy will still have to travel back to Brighton for that treatment.

"Surely it makes sense for these sick women to have all their treatment at one site.

"The final decision will be made in just a few days' time. It's urgent for all people in Brighton and Hove who feel strongly about this move to make their voices heard.

"Health services are at a low point in Brighton and Hove at present. Many patients and their relatives feel administrators are not listening to their concern.

"This time health chiefs have a golden chance to listen to public opinion, change their minds and keep the breast cancer service where it belongs - in Brighton."

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