Breast cancer, the fear and uncertainty

NEW research from Breakthrough Breast Cancer has revealed that almost half of women in the North fear a diagnosis of breast cancer.

Yet despite the fact it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the UK, affecting nearly 48,000 women every year, many women are still unsure of the signs to look for.

In Oldham, around 140 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in each of the three years up to 2008, and the average annual number of deaths caused by the disease between 2007 and 2009 was 49.

But the good news is, between 2000 and 2004, 82 per cent of women with breast cancer were alive five years after their diagnosis. The figures put Oldham in line with the national average.

Breakthrough Breast Cancer is urging women in Oldham and across the country to check their breasts regularly.

A survey carried out on behalf of the charity to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness month, this month, revealed that 86 per cent of women in the North check their breasts for lumps, but many are unsure what other symptoms to look out for.

Fewer than a third check for a change in the size or shape of their breasts, and only 6 per cent check for signs of the nipple starting to turning inwards.

A worrying one in five of the 1,000 women surveyed did not correctly identify any signs or symptoms of breast cancer.

Breakthrough Breast Cancer ambassador Bernie Nolan, who was successfully treated for the disease last year, said: “People assume finding a lump is the only way to spot breast cancer, but there are other vital signs women should be aware of.

“I noticed my breasts had changed shape and immediately went to see my doctor.

“I cannot stress enough how important it is to get to know your breasts so you can easily notice any changes.

“I really want all women to learn about Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s Touch Look Check message so they can be breast aware.”

The most common reason women give for not checking their breasts every month is forgetfulness.

The charity has designed its own iBreastCheck app, with a video and images of what to look out for, a risk calculator, and an optional reminder to allow women to set an alert to remind them to check their breasts.

:: iBreastCheck is free to download from iTunes and www.iBreastCheck.com  

For more information visit www.breakthroughbreastcancer.org