Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed every October to promote detection and support those affected by breast cancer. Around 1,450 women in Northern Ireland are diagnosed with breast cancer every year - approximately 80% of these are over the age of 50. However, it can happen to both younger women and a small number of men. 

Breast screening aims to find cancers early; it uses an x-ray called a mammogram which can find very small cancers before they have caused any symptoms or can be felt. The NHS invites women aged 50-70 for breast screening every three years and Action Cancer offers screening for women aged 40-49 and 70 plus who fall outside the NHS age range. For more information and what is involved in breast screening for women, click here. 

Click here to access a Cancer Focus NI leaflet to find out how to examine your breasts.  

Breast cancer in men is rare, but each year about 375 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK. Breast cancer can develop in the small amount of breast tissue behind the nipples. The most common symptom for men is a painless lump under the nipple or areola. The areola is the darker area around the nipple. Other symptoms may include: 

• An inverted nipple 
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast 
• An eczema-like rash on the nipple 
• Discharge or bleeding from the nipple 
• A swelling or lump in either armpit 
• An ulcer on the skin of the breast 

To read more about breast cancer in men - click here. 

You will know how your chest area normally looks and feels. If you notice any change, you should visit your GP straight away. If breast cancer is diagnosed and treated early, the more successful treatment is likely to be.  

If you would like more information about any type of breast cancer, you can call the Macmillan Support Line for free on 0808 808 0000.