All you wanted to know about breast cancer

Finds answers to the questions women don’t know who to ask...

Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk?

Carolyn Rogers, clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Now, the research and care charity. said: “Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and reducing your alcohol intake have all been shown to help reduce the risk of breast cancer.”

While there are no guarantees, making small, healthy changes such as these to your daily routine can help shift the odds in your favour.

The skin on my breast has changed. Should I see my GP?

Never be embarrassed to speak to a doctor if something concerns you.

“A lump in the breast, or sometimes under the arm, can be the first sign of breast cancer for many, but it’s vital that women know there are other signs to look out for too,” said Carolyn. “These could include new nipple discharge, or dimpling or puckering of the skin on your breast. It’s critical you get to know how your breasts normally look and feel, making it easier to spot any new or unusual changes.”

Is it true mammograms don’t work well on younger people?

“Many people are surprised to learn that this is correct,” said Daniel Leff, consultant in oncoplastic breast surgery at King Edward VII’s Hospital. “Mammograms are used more to diagnose breast cancer in older patients (the over-50s) as their breast tissue tends to be less dense, making changes easier to detect.

“Luckily, we have lots of other very successful techniques to diagnose breast cancer in younger patients, such as ultrasound examinations.”

Can you get treatment during the pandemic?

Daniel added: “Lots of doctors are now conducting appointments over the phone or by video call, so it might be possible to reassure you without having to go to a GP surgery or hospital in person.

“If a physical examination is necessary, medical staff have taken every precaution to keep patients safe, although there might be some new rules to follow at an appointment.”

Checking your breasts only takes a few minutes. You can do this when you get dressed, when you’re showering or putting on moisturiser.

Just remember to check the whole breast and the surrounding area, including the upper chest and under your arm. There’s no special way, it’s just TLC: Touch, Look, Check.

What caused my breast cancer?

“There is never one single cause and no one is ever to blame for their breast cancer,” said Carolyn. “Breast cancer results from a combination of our genes, our surrounding environment and the way we live our lives.

“Some risk factors, such as getting older, or for some having a significant family history of the disease, are out of our control but they don’t affect us all in the same way. One person may be at greater risk and never develop breast cancer, while another may be at very low risk and still be diagnosed.”

I need a mastectomy. Do I have to have a reconstruction?

“After surgery women’s confidence and self-esteem may be affected and some women may feel less feminine or unattractive,” said Carolyn.

“Many women want to try to restore their natural appearance afterwards by having a breast reconstruction.

“Others may find wearing a prosthesis – an artificial breast form that fits in a woman’s bra – an effective and suitable long-term choice, or choose to live flat. The key thing is that women discuss this with their treatment team and are given all the information they need to reach the decision that’s right for them.”

Breast cancer is affecting my sex life. Am I normal?

“Side effects from chemotherapy and hormone therapy can include a loss of libido, vaginal dryness and pain during intimacy,” explained Carolyn. “How breast cancer affects you sexually will be unique to you. It can take time and patience to adapt to the changes your body has gone through, including how you experience sexual pleasure.

“After treatment, many women feel embarrassed asking for help with issues around their sexual wellbeing. But if you’re finding this challenging, hopefully you can discuss it with

your GP or breast care nurse.”

Breast Cancer Now provides support and information to anyone affected by b re a st cancer. Cont a ct th e group’s expert nurses on 0808 800 6000 or visit breastcancernow. org. Wear pink this Friday and raise funds for the charity’s world-class research and support services. Visit wearitpink.org

There is never one single cause and no one is to blame for their cancer