Early detection saves lives: the team at UHDB explain what things you can do this Breast Cancer Awareness month
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month >, a global campaign to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection.
While commonly associated with women, it's important to remember that men can also develop breast cancer, and awareness is key for everyone. The UHDB Breast Care team > will be at Derby County Football Club's Pride Park Stadium on Monday 13 October, from 6pm - 7pm, to discuss breast cancer awareness and to particularly focus on raising awareness with men. Bookings for this are able to be made here > (opens in new window).
The event is free to attend with each male who attends receiving one complementary ticket for the fixture. (Please note that tickets are non-transferable and hold no monetary value).
Breast screening
As per national screening guidelines, females are invited for breast screening between the ages of 50 and 70 years old, every three years.
Judith and Julia are two women who attended their routine breast screening appointments with UHDB, and were diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, despite having no symptoms. For Breast Cancer Awareness month they shared their stories > (opens in new window) to encourage other women to respond to the lifesaving invitation.
The breast screening list is compiled from current GP records, therefore it is important to make sure you are registered with a GP and that your details are correct.
The invitation is sent out automatically, but if you have not received your first invitation by the age of 53, please contact the breast screening office on 01332 785691 or email uhdb.cdsbsu@nhs.net
Early detection saves lives
Detecting breast cancer early significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. One of the most effective ways to spot changes is through regular self-checks.
Your breasts can change for many reasons – so, if you check them regularly > (opens in new window), you’ll be able to spot any new or unusual changes that should be checked out by a GP.
There’s no special way to check your breast or chest and you do not need any training. Everyone will have their own way of touching and looking for changes. Check your whole breast area, including up to your collarbone (upper chest) and armpits.
Checking your breasts or chest is as easy as 'TLC'
- Touch your breasts: can you feel anything new or unusual?
- Look for changes: does anything look different to you?
- Check any new or unusual changes with a GP
What to watch out for
- A lump, swelling or thickening in the breast or underarm area
- A change in size, shape, colour or appearance of the breast
- Skin changes (dimpling, redness, scaliness)
- Nipple discharge (especially if bloody or occurs without squeezing) or nipple being pulled in (Inverted)
- Rash or crusting around the nipple
- Swelling or a lump in the chest area for men
What to do if you notice anything
If you notice any unusual changes or symptoms, don’t wait. Speak to your GP or a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Most breast changes are not cancer, but it’s always best to get checked to be sure.
Breast cancer affects people of all genders, backgrounds, and ages > (opens in new window). By staying informed and encouraging regular self-checks, we can all play a part in saving lives.
Early detection is crucial — know your normal, check regularly, and speak up if something feels off.