Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the UK, with around 56,000 new cases diagnosed each year. While the risk increases with age, breast cancer can affect women at any stage of life, making awareness and early detection particularly important.
The encouraging news is that breast cancer survival has improved significantly over recent decades, thanks to advances in diagnosis, screening and treatment.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr Adam Simon, Lead GP at Private GP Extra, explains the key risk factors, symptoms to look out for and why seeking medical advice promptly can make a real difference.
Understanding Your Risk of Breast Cancer
Around one in seven women in the UK will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Although the condition is more common in women aged 50 and over, younger women can also be affected.
Several factors may influence breast cancer risk, including age, family history, inherited genetic changes and lifetime exposure to certain hormones.
Lifestyle factors can also play a role:
- Being overweight or obese: Particularly after menopause, excess body weight is associated with increased risk.
- Alcohol consumption: Breast cancer risk generally rises as alcohol consumption increases.
- Physical inactivity: Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Some types of HRT, particularly combined oestrogen and progestogen therapy, are associated with increased risk, depending on the type and duration of treatment.
Approximately 5–10% of breast cancers are associated with inherited genetic changes. Anyone with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer should discuss this with their GP to establish whether further assessment is appropriate.
Recognising the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer
A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit is one of the most common signs of breast cancer. However, not all breast cancers present as a lump.
Other symptoms to be aware of include:
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes, including dimpling, puckering or redness
- A newly inverted nipple or changes in nipple position
- Nipple discharge, particularly if it contains blood
- Persistent breast or armpit pain
- A rash, crusting or other changes around the nipple
Many breast changes are caused by non-cancerous conditions, but any new or unusual symptoms should be checked by a healthcare professional.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Being breast aware means knowing what is normal for your body and recognising when something changes.
Regularly looking at and feeling your breasts can help you become familiar with their usual appearance and texture.
If you notice a new lump, nipple change or another unusual symptom, arrange a GP appointment promptly rather than waiting for your next routine screening invitation.
At Private GP Extra, our GPs can assess your symptoms and, where appropriate, arrange a referral to a specialist breast clinic for further investigations.
Private referrals may offer an alternative route to assessment, with patients able to self-fund or check whether their private medical insurance covers the costs.
How is Breast Cancer Diagnosed?
At a specialist breast clinic, diagnosis may involve a triple assessment, combining:
- Clinical examination: An assessment of the breasts and surrounding areas.
- Imaging: A mammogram or ultrasound scan to investigate areas of concern.
- Biopsy: A small sample of tissue or cells taken for laboratory analysis, where required.
Not every patient needs all three investigations. The tests recommended will depend on their symptoms and clinical findings.
Breast Cancer Treatment and Early Diagnosis
Breast cancer treatment continues to advance, with increasingly personalised approaches based on the type and stage of cancer.
Treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted medicines.
For some patients, breast-conserving surgery may be appropriate, while others may require a mastectomy. Treatment decisions are made by a specialist team, taking individual circumstances into account.
Early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes and may provide more treatment options, making it important to seek advice promptly if you notice any changes.
Breast Health Support at Private GP Extra
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an important reminder to pay attention to changes in your body and seek medical advice if something does not feel right.
At Private GP Extra, we understand that discovering a breast change can be worrying. Our experienced GPs provide time to discuss your concerns, assess your symptoms and arrange appropriate referrals when further investigation is needed.
Dr Adam Simon is Lead GP at Private GP Extra, providing private GP services across the North West, including Hale.
Whether you have noticed a change in your breasts or have concerns about your family history, our team is here to help.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit www.privategpextra.com/appointments or call 0161 428 4464.
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