October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and a number of charities related to breast cancer use this opportunity to raise the profile of the disease and raise funds for their causes. The Bridgend Centre was recently awarded funding from the Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance to provide information about cancer to people in our community and to work to improve early detection rates.
Being breast aware means knowing what your breasts and chest are normally like, which makes it easier to spot any changes. There is no right or wrong way to do this, but it is good to know what is normal for you. You know your body best, if you notice something unusual, tell your doctor about it.
Breast screening is for people who don’t have any symptoms. It aims to find breast cancers at an early stage when treatment is more likely to be successful. If you are aged 50-70 and registered as female with the GP, you will be sent an invitation in the post. If you aren’t invited for screening but think ou should be, speak to your GP or Gender Identity Clinic. It is your choice whether to attend breast screening. Even if you’ve been screened and no matter what your age, tell your Doctor if you notice anything unusual.
You can cut our risk of breast cancer by making healthy changes. These proven steps can lower your risk:
· Keep a healthy weight
· Cut back on alcohol – alcohol increases the risk of seven types of cancer, including breast cancer. The less you drink, the lower your risk
· Exercise regularly – the recommended amount is at least five sessions of 30 minutes every week
· Most breast cancers aren’t from inherited genes, but if a close relative has it your risk may be higher. Talk to your GP if you are worried
You can get further information and resources from the Cancer Research, Breast Cancer Now and Coppafeel websites.
It is worth remembering that men can also develop breast cancer, so it is important for everyone to check their chest and pecs area regularly.
