Day: 27 October 2019

Breast cancer is a scary thought and all too many women assume that it won’t happen to them.  However the fact is, every ten minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer and it is the most common type of cancer in the UK. Most women that are diagnosed with breast cancer are over the age of 50 but younger women also get breast cancer. In fact, 1 in 8 women are diagnosed during their lifetime. If breast cancer is discovered in its early stages, there is a great chance of recovery. This is why it is so crucial for all women to check their breasts on a regular basis for any changes and have their routine Mammograms.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer:

 Breast cancer can have a number of symptoms, but the first noticeable symptom is usually a lump or area of thickened breast tissue. Most breast lumpsare not cancerous, but it’s always best to have them checked by your doctor.

You should also see your GP if you notice any of the following:

• Change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
• Discharge from any of your nipples which may be streaked with blood
• A lump or swelling in either of your armpits
• Dimpling on the skin of your breasts
• A rash on or around your nipple
• A change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast

Breast pain is not usually a symptom of breast cancer.

Even if none of these symptoms present themselves, a doctor should be visited to be sure. All women in the UK are invited for a Breast Cancer Screening (Mammogram) every 3 years. A mammogram examination is painless and only takes about ten minutes and can often detect cancer before any symptoms arise.

Reducing your risk of Breast Cancer:

Cancer is often unpredictable and the causes of cancer are not fully understood, but there are things everyone can do to help reduce their cancer risk or improve their chances of beating the disease if they do get it. What’s more, some of those same behaviours can also help lower your risk for other serious diseases, and boost your odds of living a longer, healthier life.

• Maintain ahealthy weight
• Exercise reguarley
• Have a low intake of saturated fat
• Limit your intake of alcohol
• Avoid Smoking
• Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution
• Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy