DOCTORS and consultants at BMI The Hampshire Clinic have produced a downloadable guide about breast cancer symptoms and self-examination.

Early detection of the cancer is vital, and medics are hoping that by using this guide, women in the Basingstoke area will give themselves the best possible chance of detecting, and surviving, breast cancer.

About five out of six women diagnosed with breast cancer are still alive five years after diagnosis, but about 1,000 women still die of breast cancer in the UK every month.

Kevin Harris, consultant at the private BMI The Hampshire Clinic, in Old Basing, said: “Breast health is something that can so easily be overlooked, but the recent statistics show that with increased awareness, and through high-profile media campaigns, we can influence the behaviour of women across the UK.

“But we must never become complacent and always have to look for new ways to get the message across. That is why, as a doctor, it is vitally important to be involved in high-profile events such as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October to encourage more women to take control of their breast health.

“Across the course of their life, every woman in the UK will have a one in eight chance of developing the disease. But with early diagnosis and intervention, you can make the first positive steps to increase your chances of successful treatment. If you suspect, or notice, a lump or change in your breast, it is imperative you visit your GP straight away.”

Medics at the hospital advise that women should see their GP if they notice any of these symptoms:

  • Painless lumps in the breast
  • Changes in the size or shape of a breast
  • Dimpling to the skin of the breast
  • Thickened breast tissue
  • Nipple inversion
  • Lump or thickening behind the nipple
  • Rash affecting the nipple
  • Blood-stained discharge from the nipple
  • Swelling or a lump in the armpit.

To download the free guide to breast health, visit bmihealth care.co.uk/breast-cancer-awareness-month.