Be Clear on Cancer
Northern, Eastern and Western Devon Clinical Commissioning Group has thrown its weight behind a national campaign to encourage older women to visit their GP if they are unsure about breast cancer.
With one in three women (35 per cent) diagnosed with breast cancer in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset each year aged 70 or over, older women should not assume they are no longer at risk of breast cancer.
Public Health England has launched the “Be Clear On Cancer” campaign to remind older women to visit their doctor if they spot any changes in their breasts.
The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of breast cancer symptoms in women aged 70 over and to encourage those with symptoms to go and see their GP.
It comes as this age group accounts for more than half (60 per cent) of all breast cancer deaths in the Westcountry annually.
Around 730 women aged 70 and over are diagnosed with breast cancer in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset each year, yet survival rates are lower in the older age group compared to younger women.
Lack of awareness of symptoms other than a lump, such as changes in the shape or size of the breast, is believed to be one of the reasons for this, which the campaign aims to change.
The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the higher the chance of survival – more than 90 per cent of all women diagnosed with the earliest stage survive for at least five years. This figure is around 15 per cent for women diagnosed at a late stage.
Professor Debra Lapthorne, Devon, Cornwall and Somerset PHE centre director said: “Research shows that women over 70 have low awareness of breast cancer symptoms, other than a lump.
“They’re also more likely to delay presenting to their GP with breast cancer, which could ultimately affect their chance of survival.
“One in three women who get breast cancer are over 70, so don’t assume you’re past it or dismiss any symptoms as a sign of ageing.”
The Be Clear on Cancer campaign will see new national adverts running on TV and in the press from today until 16 March to encourage women to see a doctor if they are unsure or worried about cancer.
Dr Tim Burke, chair of the NEW Devon CCG, said early diagnosis could dramatically improve women’s chance of survival.
He said: “The CCG fully supports the Public Health England Be Clear On Cancer campaign.
“Spotting breast cancer early can make a real difference. Treatment is more likely to be successful if it is started early.
“You will not be wasting anyone’s time by getting your symptoms checked out and if it’s not serious your mind will be put at rest.
“But if it is a condition such as breast cancer, early detection will make it easier to treat so seeing your doctor early could save your life.
“We would encourage all women, especially older women, to take notice of the “Be Clear on Cancer” campaign and speak to their doctor if they have any concerns or questions about cancer.”
Research shows that older women have little knowledge of breast cancer symptoms other than a lump.
As well as a lump in your breast or armpit, other possible signs of breast cancer include:
- A lump in your breast or armpit
- Nipple changes
- Changes to the skin of your breast
- Changes in the shape or size of your breast
- Pain in your breast or armpit
You should always visit your GP if you experience any of these symptoms.
If you have any concern you can call your GP or your local pharmacy or call the NHS 111 number for information and advice or visit www.nhs.uk/breastcancer70, or join the conversation on Twitter @beclearoncancer, #breastcancer70 #beclearoncancer.
