One in five women 'don't check breasts'

Last updated at 09:38 26 October 2004


Women are being urged to check their breasts for cancer after research today revealed widespread complacency.

One in five women surveyed admitted they never check their breasts for signs of the killer disease, according to Macmillan Cancer Relief.

And just 42% of those aged 55 and over said they check their breasts at least once a month despite being the age group most at risk.

The research published to coincide with the close of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also found women in London were twice as likely not to bother to check their breasts as those living in the North, although they are equally concerned about getting the disease.

Nearly a third of women, unsure of what they are looking for, said they would like regular visits to a nurse for a check instead of doing it themselves at home.

Macmillan suggested many other women were not checking themselves because they were fearful of what they might find, despite the fact that survival rates are rising.

The latest figures show 76% of women survive five years after a breast cancer diagnosis.

But when asked what worried them most about breast cancer very few said disfiguring surgery, the treatment, hair loss or physical pain.

The biggest single concern was cancer itself with 38% of people questioned citing it as their greatest fear about the disease.

Dame Gill Oliver, of Macmillan Cancer Relief, said: "Some women are really concerned about whether they are checking their breasts in the correct way and this can put them off completely.

"The key message is for women to become familiar with their own bodies and to know what feels right for them.

"Being 'breast aware' means that women will quickly pick up any small changes which can then be investigated if necessary. Why not throw away your sponge and wash with soapy hands instead, then breast awareness will become part of your everyday routine."

The survey, carried out in September, involved 1,055 interviews with women over the age of 16 across Britain.

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