1 October 2010
A leading cancer nurse at Epsom and St Helier hospitals is supporting a national campaign to raise awareness of breast cancer this month.
The campaign, being run as part of October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aims to encourage women to check their breasts regularly for any changes.
According to latest figures, over 46,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and almost 12,000 die from the disease. And it isn’t just women who are at risk, men can get breast cancer too.
Sarah Wemyss, cancer clinical nurse specialist said: "Although it is rare, up to 300 men every year are diagnosed with breast cancer. The symptoms, diagnosis and treatment are all very similar but, in fact, men can feel more isolated and confused than women as the condition isn’t as widely recognised.
"While breast cancer most commonly affects women over 50, it is very important to remember that it is also the most common form of cancer in those under 35, so all women should learn how to check their breasts.
"I would urge women to get to know their breasts, and men to know their bodies, and to understand what changes to look and feel for, so when a change does occur, they can pick it up immediately, and see their GP to get it checked out.
"As with all types of cancer, it is vital to diagnose them as soon possible – this gives the best possible chance of successful treatment."
Sarah says the breast awareness five point code is a useful guide to help women – and men – learn to be ‘breast aware’:
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know what is normal for you;
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know what changes to look and feel for (such as a change in size or shape, constant pain in your breast or armpit or a redness or rash on the skin);
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look and feel;
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report any changes to your GP without delay;
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attend routine breast screening if you are aged 50 or over.
Sarah continues: "Things that women should be looking for include changes in breast size and shape, lumps and thickening of tissue, and constant pain and swelling around the breast or armpit. Similarly, symptoms for men also include oozing from the nipple, swelling of the breast and lumps under the arm."
