Breast Cancer:

Breast Cancer Breast cancer is the most common cause of death from cancer in women.
Over 12,000 women and nearly 100 men die of breast cancer each year.
At least 1 in 12 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
31,000 women and 200 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year.
For women over 50, screening mammograms are the best way to detect cancer at an early stage, which is when treatment can be more effective.

What is breast cancer ?

Like other cancers, breast cancer is a disease of the body's cells. Cancer begins with a change in cells which may increase in number to form a lump. If these cancers are not removed or controlled, the abnormal cells can spread and may eventually cause death.

Most breast lumps are benign, which means they are non-cancerous and are usually harmless. Breast cancer usually occurs in the cells that line the specialised breast tissue - the majority arising from the milk ducts while a small number arise in the lobes (milk sacs).

What causes breast cancer ?

The cause of breast cancer is unknown. Genetic factors may result in some families having a higher risk than others, but this is uncommon.

Risk Factors:

Age:

The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Over 70% of breast cancers occur in women over 50.

Family History:

Only some 5-10% of breast cancers may be linked to family history.

The risk is highest for a woman:

if her mother/sister developed breast cancer before turning 50
if both her mother and sister developed breast cancer
if her mother or sister developed breast cancer in both breasts

At least 9 out of 10 women who get breast cancer do not have a family history.

Screening for breast cancer:

Screening mammograms are currently the best way for women over 50 to detect cancer at an early stage. A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of the breast and performed on women with no symptoms in order to detect breast cancer at an early stage. Early detection offers a better chance of successful treatment and recovery. Mammograms do not prevent breast cancer. Be breast aware. Check your breasts for any changes such as a lump, pain, discharge or unusual appearance. Report any changes as soon as possible to your doctor.

What is the NHS Breast Screening Programme ?

All women over the age of 50 are sent an appointment for screening. You do not need to be referred by your doctor for this. The mammogram takes only a few minutes and the whole visit takes about half an hour. This service is provided FREE of charge.

How do I find out the Results ?

Your results will be sent to you and your doctor (usually within 2 weeks). Some women may be called back because the mammogram suggested further investigation. As with all screening tests, some women will be recalled because of an apparent problem detected that eventually turns out not to be a problem after all. These situations can be extremely stressful for the women involved but if the screening process did not follow these problems up, it is possible some women with breast cancer would be missed.

What if Breast Cancer is found on Screening ?

A small number of women require specialist treatment because a cancer has been found. These women will be given information and support to assist them in choosing the best treatment for them.

Breast Examination:

There are leaflets for women in the surgery containing advice on how to examine your breasts on a regular basis. Please take one of the leaflets and follow the instructions. Remember - early detection offers a better chance of successful treatment and recovery.

Wellway Medical Group doctors ensure patients with breast lumps receive a prompt referral to a specialist hospital team where a one-stop appointment (providing investigation and consultation) will take place.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice or substituted for professional advice. Always consult your doctor with your questions and concerns.