Poll finds women not carrying out regular breast cancer checks

One in three women do not check their breasts regularly for signs of cancer, according to a poll.

The survey of more than 1,100 women for the charity Breast Cancer Care also found many women were unaware of signs of breast cancer other than lumps.

Most (96%) knew a lump should always be checked but 39% did not know to look out for redness or a rash on the breast or nipple.

Some 28% did not know that a nipple becoming inverted can be a symptom, while 23% were unaware that nipple discharge can be a warning sign.

Samia al Qadhi, chief executive of Breast Cancer Care, said: “This poll shows that, although women know to look out for a lump, many are still worried about how to check their breasts and don’t know what other symptoms to be aware of.

“There’s no correct way to check – whatever your age, it’s about looking at and feeling your breasts in a way that’s comfortable and convenient for you.”

The poll also found that a fifth of women who did not check their breasts did not do so because they were unsure of how to do it properly.

While NHS advice is available to guide women on how to check their breasts, experts agree the most important thing to do is carry out any check, ideally every four to six weeks.

Meanwhile, a fifth (19%) of women in the survey aged 45 to 54 said they were worried about what they may find, despite the fact this is the age when risk increases.

Some 11% of women aged 55 and over who did not do their own check were relying on three-yearly mammograms.

Ms al Qadhi said: “It’s totally understandable that the thought of receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can be very frightening.

“But we know that earlier detection can mean more effective treatment.

“So, make today the day you start getting to know your breasts, even before you need screening or between appointments, so you can spot any unusual changes quickly,” she said.