Unfortunately, many of us know somebody who had or has breast cancer. This is the reason why campaigns created to inform women about this disease are necessary. Most women assume that if they are over 70, they’re past this problem.
In addition, there are large numbers of women who believe that a lump is all they need to see in order to become alarmed. Sadly, this is not the only symptom women with breast cancer have. There could be different changes to your breast shape, size, skin or nipple.
The lack of knowledge regarding breast cancer symptoms puts the health of many women — especially the older women — at risk.
Women Are Not Aware of the Breast Cancer Symptoms
All women who are not aware of breast cancer symptoms are in danger. However, according to researchers, most women who don’t pay attention to changes in their body are older women.
One in three women aged 70 and over is diagnosed with breast cancer, according to a Public Health England survey.
Half of them don’t know any other breast cancer symptoms — only to check for a lump in the breast. Not more than 3 women in 10, report a symptom other than that.
Cancer Can Be Treated
These numbers are very alarming, and this is the reason why many running campaigns were specially created to inform women about breast cancer symptoms over the years.
If the breast cancer symptoms are discovered, and the disease is diagnosed at an early stage in women aged 70 and over, 93% have the chance to live for at least five more years. However, if diagnosed at more advanced stages, the figure drops to just 13%.
UK’s “Be Clear On Cancer Campaign”
A new campaign, created by Public Health England is running at this moment. It is a national reminder for breast cancer in women over 70. The campaign starts today, on 13th of July and lasts until 6th of September. It is a re-run campaign that will encourage older women to be aware of the risks of getting breast cancer. There will be advertisements on TV, leaflets in the surgeries and pharmacies, as well as newspaper articles about other non-lump symptoms that women should be more aware of.
