Breast cancer symptoms and signs are in the headlines at the moment as it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. So now’s the time to check your boobs.
Do you regularly check your boobs? Well all women should check their boobs frequently, Breast cancer is a cancer that gets loads of coverage. In the past few years, breast cancer has received plenty of funding and deservedly so. This, in turn, has helped improve the survival rate in the UK.
Unfortunately however, breast cancer is still the most common cancer in the UK, with one person being diagnosed every 10 minutes. The infographic below has some pretty useful information about how to be breast aware and how to spot the signs of breast cancer.
The lifetime risk of developing breast cancer for all women is 1 in 8. So you all need to be aware of any changes in your breasts and visit your doctor if something’s not right. Even if you’ve had a mammogram you should still speak to your GP if you’re concerned. Remember, cancer doesn’t always start with a lump – other subtle changes could be a warning sign. In most cases the chances are that it will be nothing and there will be an explanation. But it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Check Your Boobs!
As part of your own breast awareness, you’ll know what is normal for you. However, understanding more about your breasts may help alleviate any niggling worries you have. Health professionals hear every day from many women who are concerned about changes in their breasts so don’t worry about ‘wasting’ your GP’s time. Believe us, they would rather hear from you!
In the UK there are medical guidelines to help decide which patients are most at risk and who should be referred for extra testing and screening. If you are at all concerned, you should speak to your GP . During your appointment, your GP will need details of your family members who have been affected including their age and gender so you should ensure that you take this information with you. So if your Mum and her sister or your sister has been diagnosed with breast cancer, then tell the doctor!
You should look for any discharge from your nipples or any red area that does not heal easily. You also need to note any changes in the appearance of your nipples. If you have a rash around your nipple too you should visit your GP.
