🎗️ An alarming increase in breast cancer cases across the UK has been observed, rising by 18% since the early ’90s. More notably, cases among younger women aged 20-49 have surged at a rate of 1.4% annually from 2012 to 2022.
This spike emphasises the importance of awareness and regular self-checks. Share a thought for TV presenter Davina McCall, who recently opened up about her own diagnosis and surgery. 🩺
Professor Zoe Winters, a prominent breast specialist, sheds light on multiple risk factors contributing to breast cancer. These include age, ethnicity, family and personal history, breast tissue density, BMI, and more. If breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family, consulting a breast specialist is crucial to understand your risks, especially related to inheritable genes like BRCA 1 and BRCA 2.
Other considerations include the use of oral contraceptives, alcohol consumption, and age at menarche. Also, young women face unique challenges such as fertility and early menopause due to cancer treatments.
🔍 Regular self-examinations are key, with experts recommending women check their breasts mid-cycle every three months. Look out for lumps, skin indentations, changes in nipple or breast size, persistent discharge, or redness.
If in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact a breast clinic. Trusted resources like Breast Cancer Care and Cancer Research UK offer valuable guidance on breast health.
Staying informed and proactive can make all the difference. Let’s spread awareness and support each other in this journey. 💪 #BreastCancerAwareness #StayInformed #SupportNetwork