October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness for those diagnosed with breast cancer, and to educate people on the symptoms to look out for and what support is available.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women the UK, but can affect anyone. Knowing the symptoms is extremely important, as an early diagnosis can give you a higher chance of recovery.
The main symptoms of breast cancer are:
- A lump in your breast, armpit or chest
- Changes in the skin of your breast, such as a change in colour or texture
- Changes to your nipple such as unusual discharge, a rash, or the nipple becoming inverted
- Pain in your breast or armpit that doesn’t go away
Some of these symptoms could be signs of other conditions, but it’s important to see a doctor to rule anything out. If it is cancer, catching it early can make it easier to treat and give you a better chance of recovery. There are many different treatments, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery, and the treatment you receive will depend on the size and severity of the cancer.
What support is available?
If you have been diagnosed with a terminal illness such as breast cancer, we can help. Our volunteers can visit you at home, offering emotional, practical and social support to make the day seem a little more manageable.
To learn more about what support we can offer, please view our services through the button below.