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“No-one should face breast cancer alone”

This theme emphasises the critical role of patient-centred care, which encompasses medical, emotional, psychological, and social support through patient navigation systems

Breast Cancer Awareness Day, part of the global Breast Cancer Awareness Month held annually in October, will be marked in the UK on October 19, 2024. This day is dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer, encouraging early detection, and supporting those affected by the disease. It plays a crucial role in promoting education, advocacy, and fundraising efforts that help improve breast cancer outcomes.

The theme for World Breast Cancer Day in 2024 is “No one should face breast cancer alone”. This theme emphasises the critical role of patient-centred care, which encompasses medical, emotional, psychological, and social support through patient navigation systems. It also seeks to address gender and socioeconomic inequalities in access to breast cancer care.

The significance of Breast Cancer Awareness Day

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the UK, with over 55,000 new cases diagnosed each year. On Breast Cancer Awareness Day, healthcare organisations, charities, and communities come together to emphasize the importance of early detection through regular screenings and mammograms, which have been proven to save lives. Although breast cancer is largely treatable when caught early, many women are still diagnosed in later stages.

The origins of Breast Cancer Awareness Month can be traced back to 1985 when it was founded by the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical company Imperial Chemical Industries (now part of AstraZeneca), which was developing breast cancer drugs at the time. The primary goal was to educate women about the importance of early detection. In 1991, the pink ribbon became the official symbol of breast cancer awareness, thanks to a partnership between the Susan G. Komen Foundation and Estée Lauder. The pink ribbon is now globally recognised as a symbol of breast cancer awareness and a reminder to support breast cancer research.

Focus Areas for 2024

The Breast Cancer Awareness Day 2024 campaign will center on three key areas:

Prevention and Awareness:

The focus will be on disseminating information about breast cancer risks, including genetic factors, lifestyle influences such as diet and exercise, and environmental contributors. Public health campaigns will aim to encourage women to take control of their health through regular breast self-examinations, knowing the signs of breast cancer, and attending routine mammogram appointments.

Access to Screening:

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) offers free breast cancer screening to women aged 50-71. However, not all eligible women participate in the programme. In 2024, there will be a renewed push to increase participation, particularly among younger women who may be at high risk due to family history or genetic factors.

Awareness campaigns will also target minority communities, where screening rates are often lower due to barriers like language, cultural beliefs, or access to healthcare.

Supporting Survivors and Families:

This year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Day will place greater emphasis on the emotional and psychological support for those affected by breast cancer, including survivors and their families. Survivorship comes with challenges like body image issues after surgery, fatigue, and emotional recovery. Several UK-based charities, such as Breast Cancer Now and Macmillan Cancer Support, will continue to offer support groups, helplines, and mental health resources to those in need.

Prevention tips

Here are some breast cancer prevention tips that can help reduce the risk of developing the disease:

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight. Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, increases the risk of breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy body weight through diet and exercise can help lower this risk.
  • Stay Physically Active. Regular physical activity can lower the risk of breast cancer. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or yoga can be beneficial.
  • Limit Alcohol Consumption. Drinking alcohol is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Limit alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day for women, as even small amounts can raise the risk.
  • Eat a Balanced Diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce cancer risk. Limit processed foods, red meats, and foods high in unhealthy fats. Consider including foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, which may help protect cells from damage.
  • Don’t Smoke. Smoking has been linked to many types of cancer, including breast cancer, especially in premenopausal women. Quitting smoking can improve overall health and reduce cancer risk.
  • Limit Hormone Therapy. If you are undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause symptoms, speak with your doctor about the risks. Long-term use of combined HRT (estrogen and progesterone) has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. If possible, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.
  • Breastfeed, if Possible. Studies suggest that breastfeeding for several months can slightly reduce breast cancer risk, especially in women who breastfeed for a year or more.
  • Regular Breast Screenings. Early detection is key to successful treatment. Follow national screening guidelines and discuss with your doctor when to begin mammograms. In the UK, for example, the NHS offers routine mammograms for women between 50 and 71 years old every three years. However, women at higher risk (due to genetics or family history) may need to start screening earlier.
  • Know Your Family History. Be aware of your family’s history of breast cancer. If there is a strong history of the disease, especially at a young age, you may need additional screening or genetic testing (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations) to assess your risk.
  • Perform Regular Self-Exams. While self-exams are not a substitute for regular screenings, they help you become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, making it easier to detect any unusual changes (lumps, changes in size or shape, or nipple discharge).
  • Reduce Exposure to Environmental Risks. Limit exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation that could increase the risk of breast cancer. Be cautious with certain chemicals found in personal care products, plastics, and household cleaners that may disrupt hormones.
  • Manage Stress. Chronic stress may indirectly affect cancer risk by leading to unhealthy behaviors (like poor diet or smoking). Managing stress through activities like meditation, exercise, or hobbies can support overall health.

By incorporating these lifestyle changes, women can take proactive steps to lower their breast cancer risk. However, it is important to remember that even those with a healthy lifestyle can still develop breast cancer, so regular screenings and staying informed are essential.