October is breast cancer awareness monthÂ
Jade Scoble shines the spotlight on breast cancer awareness month.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK. Approximately 1 in 7 women are diagnosed with it during their lifetime. Around 55,000 people are diagnosed every year, which is over 150 every day. Although it is more common for women over the age of 50 to be diagnosed, younger women can also get breast cancer.
It is extremely important that women check their breasts regularly for any changes, as the quicker this cancer is detected, the more chance of recovery. Men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer; however, this is incredibly rare.
Symptoms of breast cancer
The most common symptom of breast cancer is usually a lump or an area of thickened breast tissue in the breast or armpit, which has appeared from nowhere. Other symptoms would include;
- A change in shape or size of one breast.
- A lump or swelling in the armpit.
- Dimpling on the skin of the breasts.
- Discharge from either nipple.
- A rash on or around the nipple.
- Pulling in of the nipple, or pain around the nipple area.
While these symptoms are related to the breast and nipple area, other general symptoms can include feeling constantly tired, nausea, unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite.
Types of breast cancer
There are three main types of breast cancer which can be diagnosed:
Non-invasive
This means that the cancer has not spread anywhere else, and the abnormal cells are only in the milk ducts of the breast. They are not able to spread to any other part of the body.
Invasive
Invasive means that the cancer has spread to a place beyond where it started, and it is able to spread further.
Metastatic
This is the most advanced type of breast cancer and means it can spread to the skin, lymph nodes, or to other major organs such as, liver or lungs.
The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness and encourage women to check their breasts. And if you have any worries about what you find, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.
