Breast Cancer Awareness

Friday 21st September 2007

Most British women are shockingly unaware that breast cancer risk increases with age despite it being one of the strongest risk factors for the disease, according to startling new research published today.

An ICM poll commissioned by Breast Cancer Care found that nearly six out of ten women (58%), regardless of background, did not know that the older they get, the higher their risk.

Christine Fogg, Joint Chief Executive of Breast Cancer Care commented: "The link between increasing age and breast cancer risk is well established yet these astonishing results reveal that the message is failing to reach the majority."

"It's extremely alarming that most women over 70 do not take up breast screening, as this increases the likelihood that any breast cancer they may develop is found at a later stage, which could limit options and reduce the success of any treatment."

Cherie Booth QC, Patron of Breast Cancer Care, said:
“My Aunt Audrey died of breast cancer at 52, a year younger than I am now. She had discovered a lump in her breast but, through lack of awareness and embarrassment, didn't tell her doctor for several months.

“The evidence is clear that women are more at risk of breast cancer the older we get. We have to step up our efforts to get over the message to them of the importance of being breast aware, to talk about and report any worries to your GP without delay and the need to take up breast screening from 50 onwards.”  

The breast awareness 5-point code:
1. Know what is normal for you
2. Know what changes to look and feel for
3. Look and feel
4. Report any changes to your GP without delay
5. Attend routine breast screening if you are aged 50 or over.

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