Breast cancer: All you need to know
Finding the right people to ask can be a struggle AMY PACKER gets the answers women need
Is there anything I can do to reduce my risk?
“WHILE the biggest risk factors for developing breast cancer – such as getting older, being female or, for some, having a family history of the disease – are out of our control, there are still steps that everyone can take to help keep their breast cancer risk as low as possible,” says Carolyn Rogers, clinical nurse specialist at Breast Cancer Now, the research and care charity.
“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 or would that be wasting their time?
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,” says 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 changes.”
Most changes won’t be cancer, but the sooner it is diagnosed, the more likely treatment is to be successful.
Is it true that mammograms don’t work well on younger people?
MANY people are surprised to learn this, says Mr 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?
“IT’S crucial that during the coronavirus outbreak women continue to check their breasts regularly and know that they can and should get in touch with their GP if they notice any unusual changes,” says Carolyn.
Daniel adds: “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?
THE truth is, we still have so much to learn about this.
“There is never one single cause and no one is ever to blame for their breast cancer,” says Carolyn.
“While following healthy lifestyle advice can help women reduce risk, unfortunately it’s still no guarantee that someone won’t develop the disease.
“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
It’s a critical routine for every woman. TLC: Touch, Look, Check 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’ve been told I need a mastectomy. Do I have to have a reconstruction?
ANY decision you make about whether or not to have a breast reconstruction is incredibly personal and there is no right or wrong. “After surgery women’s confidence and self-esteem may be affected and some women may feel less feminine or unattractive,” says 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?
WHILE it can often feel like you’re the only one facing these difficulties, intimate relationships are often affected by a diagnosis and treatment.
“Side effects from chemotherapy and hormone therapy can include a loss of libido, vaginal dryness and pain during intimacy,” explains 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.
“If rediscovering your sexual identity is important to you, taking control of how you now experience pleasure could start with gently exploring your own body.
“Getting to know which areas are sensitive or painful and how you now respond to touch can help you to know what feels comfortable.”
Everyone is different, but support is available to help address any issues that are getting in the way of you enjoying intimacy in your relationship.
Breast Cancer Now provides support and information to anyone affected by breast cancer.
Contact the group’s expert nurses on 0808 800 6000 or visit breastcancernow.org