**Strictly’s Amy Dowden Shares Honest Update and Urgent Plea Following Breast Cancer Battle**
Amy Dowden, the much-loved professional dancer from Strictly Come Dancing, has spoken openly to her fans in a heartfelt update, marking nearly a year since she was declared free of breast cancer. The 34-year-old Welsh star, who was diagnosed with the disease in 2023, has continually documented her gruelling treatment journey via social media — and now channels her platform to urge others to prioritise their own health.
Dowden’s ordeal last year saw her undergo a mastectomy and rigorous rounds of chemotherapy. In February 2024, she received the positive news of “no evidence of the disease”, a milestone which she shared with relief and gratitude. Yet Amy remains unwavering in her commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer, frequently providing honest and personal updates to her large online following.
Most recently, Amy posted a reflective message on her social channels, sharing an old photograph taken at the hospital during a scan — a poignant reminder of her year-long journey. In her post, she wrote: “Just seen a pic in an article online. This was my scan, nearly a year ago. I’m smiling there (inside I was nervous) but gosh have I come such a long way since. It’s the first of the month!”
Prompted by her own experience, Amy then directed a candid question to her audience: “When was the last time you checked yourself?” She encouraged followers to use resources provided by CoppaFeel! — a charity that aims to educate people on the importance of regularly checking their breasts for unusual changes. Amy reminded her fans that, “If you’re not checking, who is?”
The dancer underscored the importance of being aware of a variety of potential warning signs, including lumps in the breast, chest, or armpit, swelling, changes in the size or shape of the breasts, skin dimpling or redness, nipple discharge (particularly if blood is present), sores, and any alterations to the nipple such as inversion or new rashes. As she pointed out, while natural variation in breast size is common, any new or persistent change should be brought to a doctor’s attention.
Health officials back Amy’s mission, with guidance from the NHS stating: “Checking your breasts or chest regularly helps you learn what looks and feels normal for you. This makes it easier to notice any changes that could be a sign of a condition such as breast cancer.” The NHS recommends checking once a month, in order to become familiar with one’s own baseline and be able to spot differences should they arise.
Amy’s renewed plea aligns with recent health service reminders for eligible people, particularly women aged 50 to 71, to attend routine breast cancer screenings. These screenings, or mammograms, are commonly offered every three years to those within the age bracket. The NHS also makes it clear that access to these life-saving tests is inclusive, with members of the trans and non-binary communities also entitled to screening — though some may need to proactively contact their GP to arrange participation.
The mammogram process itself is designed to be as quick and minimally invasive as possible, typically lasting around 30 minutes and consisting of four X-ray images taken by a specialist. According to NHS England, “For every 100 people who have breast screening, four will need further tests. This does not necessarily mean you have breast cancer. Most people who need further tests do not have breast cancer. You will be invited for a breast assessment appointment.” Those with questions or concerns can contact a breast screening nurse in advance for support and reassurance.
Unwavering in her advocacy, Amy Dowden’s journey reminds us all of the importance of early detection and the power of community support. In difficult times, she encourages open conversations about health, and points to helpful resources for anyone in need. Macmillan Cancer Support, for example, offers a free helpline open every day from 8am to 8pm (0808 808 00 00), providing a compassionate ear to anyone affected.
As Amy continues to recover and inspire, her message resonates: checking your breasts could save your life, and no one should face cancer alone. Her openness on social media is not just testament to her own courage, but a clarion call to others to take charge of their health and look out for one another.