Breast Cancer
Did you know that breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK? About 1 in 8 women is diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, but please know there's a good chance of recovery - especially if the cancer is detected at an early stage
You can learn to perform a breast check here and examine your breasts every month
Risk factors and Causes
Symptoms
Learn to check for lumps with us!
You should also see a GP if you notice any of these symptoms...
+ A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts
+ Discharge from either of your nipples, which may be streaked with blood
+ A lump or swelling in either of your armpits
+ Dimpling on the skin of your breasts
+ A rash on or around your nipple
+ Change in the appearance of your nipple, such as becoming sunken into your breast
Treatments
The causes of breast cancer are not fully known so it's extremely important to check your breast regularly and always have any changes examined by your GP. Most lumps aren't cancerous, but it's always best to have them checked
About 8 out of 10 cases of breast cancer happen in women over 50, but it can also affect younger women and in rarer cases men. All women who are 50 to 70 should be screened for breast cancer every 3 years (NHS Breast Screening Programme). Having close relatives who had breast or ovarian cancer might also affect your risk.
Women who previously had breast cancer as well as early non-invasive cancer cell changes have the risk affected in both of the breasts.
Have you been diagnosed with breast
or any other kind of cancer?
After a breast cancer diagnosis please remember that there are treaments available and you are not alone.
The main treatments for breast cancer are surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapy. They can be used in combination.
For information on Secondary Breast Cancer (Stage 4) please click here.
A team of specialists will work with you to decide on the best treatment plan for you. They will look after you throughout your diagnosis, treatment and recovery.
There are also many charities and support groups dedicated to helping you navigate through your cancer journey. We as Sam's Diamonds provide social media as well as in person support, information, meet-ups and much more! Click here to become a Diamond.
Cited Sources
“Breast cancer in women - Causes.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer/causes/.
“Breast cancer in women - Symptoms.” NHS, https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer/symptoms/.
“Breast cancer in women - Overiew.” NHS,