Women over 35 years of age are at an increased risk of breast cancer and women aged 50 or over make up the biggest group of breast cancer patients. A family history of breast cancer accounts for only 5% of all cases.
Extensive research is being carried out to help us understand the causes of breast cancer. Like many cancers, diet and lifestyle can play a part. Being breast aware – regularly examining your breasts for any changes - and always attending breast screening when invited are vital. Finding a cancer in its early stages means that you are likely to need simpler treatment and there is a better chance of recovery.
What are the Symptoms?
A lump A dimpling or thickening of the skin Changes in size or shape of the breast Veins becoming more visible
Any unusual discomfort or pain in one or other breast whichis persistent Discharge from the nipples Any change in nipple shape or a rash on or around the nipple area Lumps or anything unusual under your armsIf you experience any of the symptoms described, go to your GP as soon as possible. Similar symptoms can occur in other conditions and does not necessarily mean that you have breast cancer.
What the GP may do
The GP may refer you to a breast clinic.
What can you do? Examine your breasts regularly
Look and feel for changes
Go for regular breast screening. All women from 50 to 64 years
of age in Northern Ireland are invited to have screening, whilst
those over 65 can get appointments at the Northern Ireland
Breast Screening Service or through their GP
Screening Centres 12-22 Linenhall Street,
Belfast BT2 8BS
Tel: 028 90 333700
Level A, Antrim Area Hospital
45 Bush Road,
Antrim BT41 2RL
028 94 424425
Lurgan Hospital
Sloan Street,
Lurgan BT66 8NX
Tel: 028 38 347083
Ground Floor, The Nurses’ Home
Altnagelvin Area Hospital
Glenshane Road,
Londonderry BT47 6SB
Tel: 028 71 611443
Action Cancer
Tel: 028 90 803344
Concerned about Breast Cancer?
If you have any concerns about breast cancer, please call our free and confidential helpline – 0800 783 3339. Alternatively, you can email one of our cancer information nurses directly on infocis@ulstercancer.org