Menu
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.
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
30 September 2003
'Next big step' in breast cancer treatment launched
Cancer Research UK scientists will today embark on the next big step towards preventing breast cancer with the launch of a major new trial called IBIS II. The 10-year study will test a new drug called anastrozole and involve 10,000 healthy women who are at an increased risk of the disease.
'Next big step' in breast cancer treatment launched
Cancer Research UK scientists will today embark on the next big step towards preventing breast cancer with the launch of a major new trial called IBIS II. The 10-year study will test a new drug called anastrozole and involve 10,000 healthy women who are at an increased risk of the disease.
27 June 2014
Blood Test Could Predict Breast Cancer - Research
A blood test is currently in development that could help predict the likelihood of a woman developing breast cancer, according to research by the University College London (UCL).
Blood Test Could Predict Breast Cancer - Research
A blood test is currently in development that could help predict the likelihood of a woman developing breast cancer, according to research by the University College London (UCL).
12 August 2010
UK's Breast Cancer Deaths Fall
Population-based breast cancer mortality rates in the UK have dropped steeply in the last two decades - more than in any other major European country - according to a study published on bmj.com. These results challenge claims that survival after breast cancer is worse in the UK than elsewhere in western Europe.
UK's Breast Cancer Deaths Fall
Population-based breast cancer mortality rates in the UK have dropped steeply in the last two decades - more than in any other major European country - according to a study published on bmj.com. These results challenge claims that survival after breast cancer is worse in the UK than elsewhere in western Europe.
13 June 2008
'Denied' Cancer Drug Now Available
A costly cancer drug that could have prolonged the life of a patient is now being made widely available in the UK. However, it is too late for charity-fund raiser, Jane Tomlinson, 43, who passed away last September. She was denied the drug, Lapatinib, because her NHS trust would not pay the £6,700 cost.
'Denied' Cancer Drug Now Available
A costly cancer drug that could have prolonged the life of a patient is now being made widely available in the UK. However, it is too late for charity-fund raiser, Jane Tomlinson, 43, who passed away last September. She was denied the drug, Lapatinib, because her NHS trust would not pay the £6,700 cost.
01 May 2012
Breast Cancer Can Be Detected Years Before, According To Study
Dr James Flanagan, a Breast Cancer Campaign scientific fellow in the Department of Surgery and Cancer at Imperial College London, has uncovered the first strong evidence that molecular or 'epigenetic' changes in a gene can be associated with breast cancer risk and can be detected many years before breast cancer develops.
Breast Cancer Can Be Detected Years Before, According To Study
Dr James Flanagan, a Breast Cancer Campaign scientific fellow in the Department of Surgery and Cancer at Imperial College London, has uncovered the first strong evidence that molecular or 'epigenetic' changes in a gene can be associated with breast cancer risk and can be detected many years before breast cancer develops.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
