Half of Older Women Not Aware of Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Many older women are unaware of some of the early warning signs of breast cancer, says a new study. The study conducted by Public Health England found that every year one in three women aged 70 or over are detected with breast cancer, and they are unaware about the signs and symptoms of the disease apart from formation of lump.

A campaign has been launched by Public Health England named “Be Clear on Cancer” aimed to create awareness among women, especially the older ones about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.

The chief medical officer, Prof Dame Sally Davies, said, “You are never too old to get breast cancer. It is not always a lump and women should look out for any changes in the shape of the breast, a change to a nipple or to the skin. Spotting the signs of cancer early is very important so if women are concerned about any breast cancer symptoms they should contact their general physician straight away.”

Sara Hiom, Cancer Research's director of early diagnosis, said that they hope their initiative would encourage women as an early diagnosis, regardless of age, usually makes breast cancer more curable.

Source-Medindia