Doctors urge women to check their breasts and book their mammograms

As we come to the end of October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, doctors in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent are reminding women of the importance of regularly checking their breasts.

With one in eight women diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime, it is vital women also book and attend their breast screening appointment when eligible.

Early diagnosis is important when treating breast cancer, and the sooner problems are discovered the more likely treatment will be successful.

Dr Mona Arora, a GP at the Village Surgery in North Staffordshire said:

“Breast cancer affects millions of people and their families each year and is the second most common type of cancer in women.”

“If you’re aged between 50 and 71 and are registered with a GP as a female, you’ll be invited for NHS breast screening every 3 years. NHS breast screening also known as a mammogram checks use -x-rays to look for cancers that are too small to see or feel. Men can also get breast cancer, but it is rare.”

“I would urge everyone who is eligible to take up the offer of breast screening.   Early diagnosis saves lives and breast screening has saved many thousands of lives since it was first introduced in 1988.

“It is also vital that women check their breasts regularly so they understand what is normal for them and can then contact the GP to be examined if anything changes.

“The good news is if breast cancer is detected early, chances of recovery and survival are high. Alongside this, some women with a family history of breast cancer may be eligible for genetic testing and should discuss this with their GPs.”

If you haven’t had an invitation for breast screening  and you are aged between 53 – 71, you can find your local screening service here: Find local screening service

If you’re a trans man, trans woman, or non-binary how you are invited will depend on the sex you are registered with at your GP.

Remember, if you experience breast pain with no other symptoms, then please seek advice from your GP.

More information is available on the NHS website:  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-screening-mammogram/