By Dr. Hannah Watson
Every October, we unite to raise awareness about breast cancer. Behind the pink ribbons and heartfelt stories lies a vital truth: knowledge and proactive care can save lives. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with essential information about breast cancer, how to recognise its signs, and the steps you can take to reduce your risk. Your potential risk is year round, so let’s transform breast cancer awareness into an open and continued commitment to health and wellness.
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour. It is the most common cancer in the UK, with approximately 55,200 new cases each year—an average of 150 people diagnosed daily. Astonishingly, 1 in 7 women in the UK will confront this diagnosis in their lifetime. Understanding this disease is the first step towards effective prevention and treatment.
Spotting the Symptoms
Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Being vigilant about the following symptoms is crucial:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit: Often, the first noticeable sign.
- Changes in the size, shape, or feel of the breast: Any unusual alteration should be checked.
- Skin changes such as puckering, dimpling, rash, or redness could indicate underlying issues.
- Nipple discharge or changes in nipple position: Particularly if it's unusual or occurs without squeezing.
- Persistent breast discomfort: Though pain is a rare symptom of breast cancer, it should not be ignored.
Healthy breasts come in all shapes and sizes. Familiarise yourself with what’s normal for you, so you can detect any changes early and consult your GP without delay.
The NHS Breast Screening Programme’s 5-Point Plan
To help you stay vigilant, the NHS Breast Screening Programme has developed a straightforward 5-point plan:
- Know what’s normal for you: Understand the usual look and feel of your breasts.
- Regularly look at and feel your breasts: Make this a routine part of your self-care.
- Recognise the changes to watch for: Be aware of the warning signs.
- Report any changes to a GP without delay: Early consultation can make a significant difference.
- Attend routine screening if you’re aged 50 to 70: Regular screenings are vital for early detection.
A practical tip: Examine your breasts and armpits up to your collarbone, perhaps in the shower or bath using a soapy hand. Also, inspect your breasts in the mirror with your arms by your side and then raise them.
Modifiable Risk Factors
While some risk factors for breast cancer cannot be changed, such as age and family history, several lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce your risk:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight increases circulating oestrogen levels, which can fuel breast cancer. Aim for a balanced diet rich in unprocessed foods, fruits, and vegetables.
- Stay Physically Active: Regular physical activity lowers levels of certain growth factors and hormones linked to breast cancer and reduces inflammation. Being active can lower your breast cancer risk by about 20%.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol is a significant risk factor, contributing to approximately 4,400 breast cancer cases annually in the UK. No amount of alcohol is completely safe; even small amounts increase risk.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking introduces carcinogenic chemicals into your body, raising your breast cancer risk.
- Be Cautious with Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of HRT, particularly synthetic oestrogen and progestogen, increases risk. This risk decreases after stopping HRT, especially for short-term users.
- Reduce Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) found in everyday products can interfere with hormones and potentially lead to breast cancer. Other carcinogens directly damage DNA.
- Consider Metabolic Health: Emerging research highlights the role of metabolic health in breast cancer risk and survival. Elevated insulin levels, often a result of insulin resistance, are associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. Insulin can promote tumour growth by acting as a growth factor. Furthermore, studies suggest that patients with well-managed insulin levels might have better survival rates, underlining the importance of monitoring and managing blood glucose as part of a cancer prevention or management strategy. Regular exercise and a diet low in refined sugars and high in fibre can help maintain healthy insulin levels.
Breast cancer awareness extends beyond October; it's a year-round commitment to health and vigilance. By understanding the symptoms, regularly checking your breasts, and adopting healthier lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk. Stay informed, proactive, and share this knowledge to empower others. Together, we can transform awareness into action and make a lasting difference in the fight against breast cancer. For more information, visit Breast Cancer UK and Cancer Research UK.
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