So, what and where is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is cell changes in the breast tissue that turn cancerous – surprisingly breast tissue includes the top of your rib cage, breasts, nipples collar bones and armpits (so don’t miss any bits when checking).

Who can get breast cancer?

Everyone can so it is important that you all check regularly as it is often seen as a female only disease.

1 in 8 women and 1 in 1000 men will get breast cancer in their lifetime.

However, if caught in the early stages there is 100% survival rate. Between 2013-2017 the overall survival rate was 76% with 23% of these being preventable and caused from lifestyle factors (source cancerresearchuk.org).

How to help yourself!

Positive lifestyle factors that help reduce your chances of getting breast cancer

  • Don’t smoke
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Limit alcohol consumption
  • Keep active
  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Drink 6-8 glasses of water per day

Self-checking

My maternal Grandmother unfortunately passed away from breast cancer back in 1999, this was largely due to her not going to the Doctor in time for treatment due to embarrassment, but also because she didn’t know until it was too late that there was something wrong because she didn’t know how to do a breast exam.  Since then my family is passionate about doing self-checks and encouraging others to do the same. If you feel or see a change get it checked out by your Doctor straight away – don’t delay!

Know your normal.  Hormone changes can make them feel different at different times of the month so a quick check in your shower or bath daily and a thorough check at least once a month should help you identify anything abnormal for you.  If you struggle to remember coppafeel.org have a free reminder feature where they email you.

Breast cancer can affect anybody so getting to know yours could save your life #know yourself (coppafeel.org)

Know the signs

Finally, if you find any signs, don’t panic! Many times, this could just be down to hormonal changes or cysts however, definitely go to your Doctor as soon as possible and get it checked properly

For more information or should you wish to get involved in any fundraising please visit: www.cancerresearch.org  www.coppafeel.org  www.pinkribbonfoundation.org.uk  www.macmillan.org.uk  www.nhs.uk

Michaela Le Bail