Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer among women in Northern Ireland with around 1,450 women diagnosed every year (approximately 80% of these women are over 50 years old). It is important that women and men check their breasts regularly for any changes and always check any changes you notice with your GP. 

Early detection positively affects survival rates. It is therefore important for all women to be breast aware – that is, to “know their normal” – and for women in target populations be screened through high-quality, organised screening programmes. Treatment for breast cancer can be highly effective, especially when the disease is identified early. 

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 lumps are not cancerous, but it is always best to have them checked by your doctor.

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

• A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts. 
• Discharge from either 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. 
• If you are aged between 40-49 or over 70 years old, you can book an appointment on the Action Cancer Big Bus, which is a mobile unit that travels around different venues. To find out more and to book an appointment, click here. If you are aged 50 – 70 years old and registered with a GP, you will be invited every three years for a mammogram with the NHS Breast Screening Programme. This service is organised via your GP. 
• Be Breast Aware leaflet from Cancer Focus visual poster shows you how to examine yourself click here. 
• To find out more about breast screening, click here. 

MacMillan Cancer offers a range of information about breast cancer for both women and men: 

• Types of breast cancer.
• Breast cancer symptoms.
• Breast cancer treatments. 
• Breast cancer in men.

More information is available on the Mind Yourself app.

Visit www.serc.ac.uk to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.