October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month, we come together to support, honour, and raise awareness for those impacted by breast cancer. Whether you're a survivor, battling, or remembering someone you've lost, this month is dedicated to YOU.

In 2023 alone, over 55,000 people were diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK alone. Every day there are over 150 new cases in the UK, with breast cancer making up for 15% of all Cancer Cases in the UK.

How to check for Breast Cancer

There are some factors or conditions that we cannot control, like genetics, and age, but living a healthy life and implementing some changes can reduce the risk.

Here are some key signs to watch for:

• Unusual lumps or thickened tissue
• Changes in breast size or shape
• Nipple discharge or pain
• Changes in skin, such as dimpling or redness

How to reduce the risks of breast cancer?

• Use a sun cream with a high SPF
• A healthy diet with fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Quit smoking
• Cut back on alcohol
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Regular exercise
• Regular mammograms

Men can also get breast cancer

Men make up less than 1% of all breast cancer cases, to be exact, 370 men were diagnosed with breast cancer last year.

Signs of male breast cancer are: 

• Lump in the breast, often beneath the areola
• Lump under the armpit
• Nipple changes (inverted nipple, rash or scales around nipple, nipple discharge)
• Reddening of skin
• Pitted or dimpled skin

It's always better to be safe than sorry. Don't delay, get a test today if you're concerned about breast cancer.