Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK, with around 55,500 women and 370 men diagnosed each year. The statistics are scary, but the more we understand about breast cancer, the better our chances of successful treatment.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the breast tissue, when cells begin to divide and grow in an unusual and uncontrolled way. One of the dangers of breast cancer is how easily it can be spread to other parts of the body. This is due to the network of lymph glands close to the breast, which are part of the lymphatic system that runs throughout the body. Cancer cells that have broken away from the breast tissue can be carried by lymph fluid to nearby lymph nodes.

What are the causes of breast cancer?

Unfortunately, no one knows the exact causes of breast cancer. There are, however, certain risk factors which may increase a person’s chance of developing breast cancer. Some examples of avoidable risk factors include lack of physical activity, poor diet, being overweight, drinking too much alcohol and undergoing combined Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). You’re also more likely to develop breast cancer if you’re a white female, over the age of 55 or if your mother, sister or child has been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer. Other unavoidable risks include starting menstruation before the age of twelve, reaching the menopause after the age of 55 and having children at an older age.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

The most common symptoms of breast cancer include: A lump in the breast, upper chest or armpit A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling A change in the colour of the breast A nipple change, for example an inversion Rash or crusting around the nipple Unusual discharge from the nipple Changes in size or shape of the breast See your GP if you notice a change to your breast that’s new or unusual for you.

Is breast cancer curable?

The survival rate for breast cancer is reasonably high, especially if you’re diagnosed early. Fortunately, there are several different treatment options for breast cancer, most of which include a combination of surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Your doctor will take many different factors into account when deciding which treatment is best for you, including how big the cancer is, whether it has spread and your general health.

What can I do to help?

Whether you’re suffering from breast cancer yourself, supporting a loved one through their treatment or looking to raise awareness in your community, there are many ways in which you can seek and provide support in the face of breast cancer. Charities such as Prevent Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Now, Breast Cancer UK, Against Breast Cancer and the Pink Ribbon Foundation offer care packages, support groups, expert guidance and more to help people battling with breast cancer. You can also get involved in sports challenges, fundraising and volunteering initiatives, or donate to a breast cancer charity that resonates with you.