The importance of attending BreastCheck appointments

Sonya Carr

Cancer Awareness Nurse, Irish Cancer Society

With advances in screening, earlier diagnosis and improved treatments for breast cancer, the five-year survival rates have improved to up to 87%. BreastCheck plays a vital role in cancer care in Ireland.

Around one-third of all breast cancer cases diagnosed each year are identified through BreastCheck. This invaluable national screening service is provided free to women aged 50–69 years. To avail of this screening service, women should check that they are registered on Registration – Breastcheck. If you are not registered, you will not receive an invitation to the screening service.

Examine your breasts and get checked

The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age and is more common in women aged 50 or older who have been through the menopause. However, cancer can occur at any age. Therefore, it is important that women and girls are aware of the signs and symptoms.

We encourage girls from the age of 18 years to carry out a monthly self-breast examination. Women should know what looks and feels normal for them and when changes occur. If changes occur between screening appointments, it is important to get checked. Find more information on how to check your breasts on cancer.ie/breast-cancer.

We encourage girls from the
age of 18 years to carry out a
monthly self-breast examination.

Signs and symptoms of breast cancer

The following are the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, and you should always consult your doctor to discuss these symptoms.

• A lump or thickening in your breast or armpit.
• A change in the size or shape of one breast.
• A change in the skin of your breast, like puckering or dimpling (the skin may look like orange peel).
• A breast abscess (infected boil); this may appear as a red, tender area on your breast.
• A change in your nipple, like a pulled-in (inverted), sunken or flattened nipple.
• An unusual discharge (liquid) from one or both of your nipples; the discharge may be blood-stained or watery.
• A change on or around the nipple, like a rash or flaky or crusted skin.
• Swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone.

If you are worried or have concerns about breast cancer or any cancer, call the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 or email [email protected]