Experts say early detection of breast cancer can save women's lives. This is why they are encouraging women to check their breasts for early signs amid data that suggests too many women are skipping this simple means to prevention.
Based on a report, a recent survey commissioned by Breast Cancer Care indicated that a significant number of women were neglecting to check their breasts and are only relying on the NHS for screening.
"Early detection of breast cancer can save lives. So it's vital women know to keep checking their breasts, even if they're attending regular mammograms, and that they can request screening appointments after the age of 70, as symptoms can occur at any time. There's no right or wrong way to check your breasts - it's about looking and feeling regularly, so any unusual changes can be spotted quickly," explained Samia al Qadhi, chief executive at UK based charity organisation Breast Cancer Care.
Al Qadhi added that women over the age of 50 are more at risk of the disease so it is more important that they are supported with ample information about prevention, aside from support that they get from the NHS, a publicly funded health service for UK citizens.
The agency currently conducts routine breast cancer checks for women ages 50-70 every three years.
Because the screening only takes place every three years, it remains imperative that women are proactive when it comes to their health.
Based on the results of the survey of 1,012 women, 84 percent attend breast screening appointments but 14 per cent never check their breasts at home.
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. According to data from the World Cancer Research Fund International, which identified 1.7 million new cases in 2012 alone, breast cancer accounts for 12 per cent of new cancer cases and 25 per cent of all cancer cases in women.
