Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women the UK with one woman being diagnosed every 10 minutes.
Around 55,000 women and 370 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK.
A recent YouGov survey commissioned by Breast Cancer Now, found that almost half (47%) of women in the UK do not check their breasts regularly for potential signs of breast cancer.
There are different signs and symptoms of breast cancer, so it is important to regularly check your breasts for anything different, unusual or new.
Over a quarter of all Breast cancer cases are preventable, showing that the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment. It is important to get to know what your breasts look and feel like normally, and at different times of your menstrual cycle, as this can mean it is easier to spot any unusual changes and get them checked out with a GP. Some common signs and symptoms to check for
A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit. You might feel the lump, but not see it.
Changes in the size or shape of the breast
A change in skin texture i.e. puckering or dimpling of the skin
A change in the colour of the breast - the breast may look red or inflamed
Rash, crusting or changes to the nipple
Any unusual discharge from either nipple
Checking your breasts only takes a few minutes. Remember to check the whole breast area, including your upper chest and armpits.
If you notice anything unusual when performing a self-examination don’t wait. Make an appointment with your GP, where a doctor can perform a manual exam and send you for a mammogram if they feel it is needed. A mammogram examination only takes about ten minutes and helps clinicians to look for early signs of breast cancer.
Breast cancer survival in the UK is improving, with figures doubling in the past 40 years. This increase is due to a combination of improvements in treatment and care, earlier detection through screening and a focus on improving faster diagnosis.
For further information and support please see below:
SWAG! Cancer Support Choir – A friendly, Cheshire-based choir bringing together individuals who work and have been through cancer treatment. Singing a variety of songs – some a Capella and others accompanied. Open to anyone who would like to join, whether or not they have been directly affected by cancer.
CoppaFeel! Are here to help everyone stand the best possible chance of surviving breast cancer by educating you on the importance of getting to know your boobs and pecs!
Breast Cancer Support is a breast cancer care charity providing care, and helping breast cancer patients worldwide who can’t afford medication or treatment.
Breast Cancer UK is dedicated to the prevention of breast cancer by tackling the environmental and lifestyle causes of the disease.
Macmillan Cancer Support – A national charity supporting individuals and families affected by all cancers. Local support teams are available at the Macmillan Cancer Support and Information Centre at the Countess of Chester which offers a free & confidential service for anyone affected by Cancer.
Cancer Research UK. Cancer Research UK offer support if you've been diagnosed with cancer, or know someone who has. Cancer Research UK can provide practical advice on everything from symptoms and screening, to coping after treatment as well as offering fully moderated forum where you can talk to others affected by cancer, share experiences, and get support in the 24 hour Cancer Chat.
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