Every year 46,000 women in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer. That’s one person every 11 minutes. 80% of breast cancers occur in women over 50.
The good news is that breast cancer survival rates are improving – probably as a result of improved treatment and earlier detection.
So how do I check my breasts?
There is no right or wrong way to check your breasts. Try to get used to looking and feeling your breasts regularly. Remember to check all parts of your breast, your armpits and up to your collarbone.
What changes should I look and feel for?
• Changes in size or shape
• Changes in skin texture such as puckering or dimpling
• Inverted nipple
• A lump or thickening of breast tissue
• Redness or a rash on the skin/around the nipple
• Discharge from one or both nipples
• Constant pain in breast or armpit
• Swelling in armpit/around collarbone
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The 5 point code to be breast aware
Here are 5 easy steps to being breast aware. Nobody knows your breasts like you do, so you’re the best person to notice any changes to them. Being breast aware is easy- just follow these simple steps:
1. Know what is normal for you
2. Know what to look and feel for
3. Look and feel
4. Report any changes to your GP without delay
5. Attend routine breast screening if you are over the age of 50
www.breastcancercare.org.uk provides free confidential support
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