More than a third of women don’t check their breasts and this is higher in younger women. Often younger women don’t feel the need or see the benefit in doing this, but one in seven women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and whilst the risk is higher the older you get, young women ARE diagnosed with breast cancer and it’s the checking that can ultimately save their lives.
Breast Cancer can be caused by a combination of our genes, environments, and lifestyles. Just because a person doesn’t have a family history of the disease, doesn’t mean they won’t go on to develop breast cancer. Checking regularly is vital and it is so important to know your breasts.
The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chance of successful treatment.
What are the symptoms of breast cancer?
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit
- A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling
- A change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look red or inflamed
- A nipple change, for example it has become pulled in (inverted)
- Rash or crusting around the nipple
- Unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple
- Changes in size or shape of the breast
You are urged to see your GP if you notice a change in your breasts. Most breast lumps are not cancer but getting lumps and changes checked out is always worthwhile, and to put your mind at rest.
Success Story
Louise our Practice Manager was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2019 after discovering a small lump. Thankfully she didn’t delay in getting this checked and is now approaching three and a half years post diagnosis. Louise’s message is clear, knowing and checking your breasts can save your life. Never believe you are too young as unfortunately cancer takes no mercy and can strike amongst any age and in men as well. Louise is forever grateful to the NHS team that took care of her throughout her journey and enabling her to get back to her former self. Louise recalls that when you are diagnosed your world shuts down and it takes time to realise that you are not alone and see a future again. At the time of her diagnosis in 2019 there was a lack of local support in Grantham, but now ‘Breast Friends’ support group is up and running, helping to support each other with over 100 members. Knowing that there are others that have been through the same or similar really does help and knowing you aren’t alone.
The Maltings team will show their support in the ‘Wear it pink day’ on Friday 21st October. Raising awareness and sharing key messages is what the month is all about. We hope to share the message far and wide that regular checking of breasts will save lives.
