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01/09/2003
Study shows women ignore early signs of breast cancer
Many women fail to seek early medical help when they find early symptoms of breast cancer, a new study has revealed.
The research, carried out by a team of doctors from three medical schools across London, suggests that one in two women who suspect they might have signs of breast cancer would wait several months before seeking medical advice.
The women were asked at what point they would visit their GP if they noticed a change in their breasts. Almost 60% said they would seek medical advice immediately, but the remainder of those questioned said they would delay making an appointment – with 12% willing to wait several weeks before visiting their doctor.
The findings are particularly significant as research consistently shows that tackling the disease at an early stage can dramatically increase the chances of recovery.
Publishing their results in the British Journal of Health Psychology, the researchers suggested that the study showed that many women are still unaware of many of the symptoms of breast cancer, which results in a delay in seeking medical help.
Responding to the findings, UK charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer stressed the importance of seeking early intervention if women detect changes in their breasts.
Dr Michelle Barclay stated: "Around 80% of breast cancers are found by women themselves. If you find anything unusual or are worried, consult your GP immediately."
More than 40,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in the UK each year.
The research, carried out by a team of doctors from three medical schools across London, suggests that one in two women who suspect they might have signs of breast cancer would wait several months before seeking medical advice.
The women were asked at what point they would visit their GP if they noticed a change in their breasts. Almost 60% said they would seek medical advice immediately, but the remainder of those questioned said they would delay making an appointment – with 12% willing to wait several weeks before visiting their doctor.
The findings are particularly significant as research consistently shows that tackling the disease at an early stage can dramatically increase the chances of recovery.
Publishing their results in the British Journal of Health Psychology, the researchers suggested that the study showed that many women are still unaware of many of the symptoms of breast cancer, which results in a delay in seeking medical help.
Responding to the findings, UK charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer stressed the importance of seeking early intervention if women detect changes in their breasts.
Dr Michelle Barclay stated: "Around 80% of breast cancers are found by women themselves. If you find anything unusual or are worried, consult your GP immediately."
More than 40,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in the UK each year.
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08 August 2003
HRT therapy can double breast cancer risk
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HRT therapy can double breast cancer risk
Certain kinds of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can double a woman's risk of breast cancer, according to major research study of more than a million women. Researchers found that post-menopausal women using combination HRT were twice as likely to develop breast cancer as non-users.
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