In the U.K. it is estimated that about 13,400 women aged 70 and over are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. This amounts to over 30 percent of breast cancer cases. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in England. Findings suggest women of this demographic are among the most likely to delay going to see their doctor if they have any symptoms.
Around one in three women diagnosed with breast cancer report a symptom other than a lump. However, less than half of all women, when surveyed, could name any symptoms other than a lump. Other symptoms include a change to a nipple , to skin, or with the shape of the breast.
For these reasons the U.K. government has begun a new campaign. The theme of the campaign is around the message “don’t assume you’re past it.” Here older women are encourage to visit a medical professional if they notice any unusual changes to their breasts. This forms part of the overall health strategy “Be Clear on Cancer.”
Early detection of breast cancer is very important and the earlier the diagnosis then the more likely it is that treatment will be successful.
According to Cancer Research UK:
In 2011, there were over 50,000 new cases of breast cancer.
1 in 8 women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
In 2012, there were almost 12,000 deaths from the disease.
Given early detection, the survival rate is 78 percent.
Commenting on the new initiative, Professor Dame Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer, has stated on a U.K. government website: “You are never too old to get breast cancer. It is not always a lump and women should look out for any changes in the shape of the breast, a change to a nipple or to the skin. Spotting the signs of cancer early is very important so if women are concerned about any breast cancer symptoms they should contact their GP straight away.”
