Women in Leeds are being urged to be aware of breast cancer symptoms in a campaign launched today by Public Health England (PHE).
Almost two-hundred women aged seventy and over in Leeds are diagnosed with breast cancer each year; last year more than five-hundred women in Yorkshire and the Humber died of breast cancer, according to PHE Leeds.
Leeds City Council Director of Public Health, Dr Ian Cameron said:
“We know early diagnosis makes a considerable difference for successful treatment of breast cancer. That is why we’re supporting the Be Clear on Cancer campaign, to help women in Leeds look after their health and get the help they need if there is a potential problem.”
Research conducted for PHE shows only half of women over seventy could name breast cancer symptom aside from a lump.
The ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ campaign aims to drive awareness of the risk of breast cancer amongst this age group and to increase their knowledge of lesser-known symptoms.
Professor Dame Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer for England said:
“You are never too old to get breast cancer. It is not always a lump and women should look out for any changes in the shape of the breast, a change to a nipple or to the skin.
“Spotting the signs of cancer early is very important so if women are concerned about any breast cancer symptoms they should contact their GP straight away.”
Diana Moran, Health Writer and International Fitness Expert was 47 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her advice is:
“Get to know your breasts and recognise if there are any changes. The older you get, the more important it is to be aware of your body…
“If you do notice a change in your breasts, whether it’s a lump, discharge or a skin change, go and see your GP as soon as you can. The chances are that it’s nothing serious! But it might be something that needs attention and if diagnosed earlier, treatment can be a lot more successful.”
For more information on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer please visit nhs.uk/breastcancer70.