Think Pink for Breast Cancer Awareness month
October is set to be an even pinker month for Diamond as we take a look at Breast Cancer Awareness month.
Raising awareness of breast cancer is vital in helping fight the disease that is sadly the second most common cause of death from cancer in women in the UK.
Both women and men can be affected by it, but it's quite rare in men. One in 8 women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and around 400 men are diagnosed each year.
Every year nearly 55,000 people are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK, that's the equivalent of one person every 10 minutes.
Be breast aware
Being breast aware is part of caring for your body; there is absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about. Get to know the look and feel of your breasts so you know what's normal for you - every woman is different. If you notice a difference, seek medical advice from your GP as quickly as possible.
Breast Cancer Care checklist
- Look at and feel your breasts so you know what's normal for you
- Do this regularly to check for changes
- Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you notice anything
Nearly 12,000 people die from breast cancer in the UK every year, but 85% - more than 8 out of 10 - people survive breast cancer beyond five years.
Early detection of breast cancer is highly encouraged - the sooner breast cancer is diagnosed the more effective treatment may be. So, don't be afraid to approach your doctor if you think something is different.
Risk factors
The three main risk factors are:
- Gender - being a woman is the biggest risk factor for developing breast cancer
- Getting older - the older the person the higher the risk, more than 80% of breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50. Most men who get breast cancer are over 60
- Significant family history - this isn't common, around 5% of people diagnosed with breast cancer have inherited a faulty BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene
For free, confidential support and information visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call the Helpline on 0808 800 6000.
- We'll be running a series of articles throughout Breast Cancer Awareness month so keep an eye on the Diamond Extras section. And if you have anything you'd like to share please contacts us via our Twitter or Facebook pages