What do we need to know?
Breast cancer is still the most common type of cancer in women in the UK with 31% of diagnosed cancer cases being breast cancer. A shocking one in eight women in Britain will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time in their lives. Although much rarer 400 men are also diagnosed every year in the UK. These are alarming statistics that require every woman’s attention. IS there anything we can to protect ourselves, to aid early detection? Where can we go for more information on the topic and what help is available for those who are affected? These questions form the outline of this post.
Gather information
Even though the number of new cases is high and the diagnosis of breast cancer can affect women of all ages, the treatment choices and support available is also increasingly better. Breastcancercare is a great source of information for anyone newly diagnosed and there are a wealth of support groups avaialable regionally so you can always find support near to where you live if you want it.
Breast Cancer Care has a number of links you can click through to find out more information on your particular area of concern and a helpline that you can call if you would like to speak to someone. Its always quite reassuring to connect with someone else who has been through a similar experience and come out the other side. The important thing is to ask questions, find out all about your diagnosis, what your treatment options will be, what possible side effects you may experience, how long the treatment will be expected to continue. You may also want advice on time off work, dealing with relatives concerns and a host of other things that may worry you.
Check for early signs
The below information is found on the Breast Cancer Care.
Signs and symptoms of breast cancer can include:
- a change in size or shape
- a lump or area that feels thicker than the rest of the breast
- a change in skin texture such as puckering or dimpling (like the skin of an orange)
- redness or rash on the skin and/or around the nipple
- your nipple has become pulled in or looks different, for example changed its position or shape
- liquid that comes from the nipple without squeezing
- pain in your breast or your armpit that’s there all or almost all of the time
- a swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone
Many symptoms of breast cancer, such as breast pain or a lump, may in fact be caused by normal breast changes or a benign (not cancer) breast condition. However, if you notice a change, it’s important to see your GP (local doctor) as soon as you can.
Some people think that having breast cancer will cause other symptoms apart from a breast change, such as feeling tired, having less energy or weight loss, but this is not the case. If you notice a change, even if you feel well, it’s important to visit your GP.