Wear your pink ribbon with pride – October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. But while most of us know someone who’s battled the disease, we could all use a refresh on the facts. From the unexpected signs to keeping optimistic after diagnosis, we’ve teamed up with Breast Cancer Care to bring you the essentials.
1 Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK
Around 55,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, and approximately one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
2 It’s not just about looking out for a lump
There are many signs and symptoms of breast cancer to be aware of, including a nipple becoming inverted, a change in the size or shape of the breast and dimpling of the skin. This guide from Breast Cancer Care will show you what to look out for. Remember, it’s about looking for a change, or anything that’s unusual for you.
3 There’s no ‘correct’ way to check your breasts
Do it in a way that’s comfortable for you, so that might be in the shower, when you get into bed or as you get dressed for the day. Try to get used to both looking at and feeling your breasts regularly – make sure you check under your armpit and all the way up to your collarbone, too.
4 The main risk factors aren’t in our control
Getting older, being female and, for some people (hello Angelina) having a significant family history are the three main risk factors for developing breast cancer. But lifestyle choices like eating a well-balanced diet, taking regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can all help reduce your risk of the disease.
5 More people survive breast cancer than ever before
Almost two-thirds of people (65 per cent) survive beyond 20 years. Early diagnosis is key to saving lives, so it’s vital to go to your GP straight away if you notice anything unusual.
If you have any worries, Breast Cancer Care’s nurses are on hand to offer support and information from day one – call them free on 0808 800 6000 or visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk for more info