Stay Abreast of Your Breast Screening

Cancer Research UK has revealed that around 10,600 fewer patients in England started treatment for breast cancer between April 2020 and March 2021 compared with the same period the year before.

There is ongoing concern that this drop in numbers is unfortunately due to the public’s reluctance to seek medical advice and continue with their breast screening due to the COVID pandemic.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This annual campaign is about increasing awareness of the disease including the importance of breast screening, access, and treatment options available.

You can find more information about the campaign here.

Do Not Ignore the Signs of Cancer

Almost half of women in the UK are reported to not check their breasts regularly for potential signs of breast cancer, the charity Breast Cancer Now has revealed.

1 in 10 women are reported to have never checked their breasts for new or unusual changes. In addition, only 19% of women check their breasts once every 6 months or less whilst only 13% check once a year or less.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers for women in the UK and Breast Cancer Now is making an urgent plea for all women to make checking their breasts a habit of a lifetime. By doing so, it will prompt individuals to understand their body and notice any signs which are abnormal which could lead to help with early diagnoses.

Self Check Your Breasts At Home

Research suggests that a large percentage of women are not checking their breasts for abnormalities regularly. They do not feel confident about what unusual changes are, and what they should be looking for. This is the case for almost 17% of women aged 45-54, which is the age when breast cancer risk increases significantly for women.

If you would like more information about how to carry out a quick, simple breast check at home then click here for NHS advice.

Can I Lower My Risk of Breast Cancer?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer but there are several things that you can do to reduce your risks such as maintaining a healthy weight, remaining physically active, and avoiding or limiting alcohol. Our GPs at The Mayfair GP can help you with lifestyle choices so that you can achieve your health goals, and lower your risk of breast cancer.

Book A Breast Screening

If you need a breast screening then get in touch today to book an appointment with one of our dedicated doctors at The Mayfair GP.