20/10/2023
Our Breast Screening Service is supporting October Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Marietta Connor, Lead Mammographer at the Western Trust said:
“We are delighted to be supporting October breast cancer awareness month by highlighting the importance of breast awareness and encouraging attendance at our mobile breast screening clinics when called so that any change can be checked out, and, if there is a problem this can be dealt with quickly! The last time we screened in these two locations 32 ladies were diagnosed with breast cancer and subsequently received treatment.
“Breast Cancer is unfortunately very common but survival is very good, particularly if you are diagnosed early. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment. So it’s important to check your breasts regularly and see your GP if you notice a change.
Common breast cancer signs and symptoms include:
- a lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit – you might feel the lump but not see it
- a change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling
- a change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look red or inflamed
- a change to the nipple, for example it has become pulled in (inverted)
- rash or crusting around the nipple
- any unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple
- changes in size or shape of the breast
Marietta added:
“On its own, pain in your breasts is not usually a sign of breast cancer. But look out for pain that’s there all or most of the time. Noticing an unusual change doesn’t necessarily mean you have breast cancer, and most breast changes are not because of cancer. But it’s important to get checked by your GP.
“The Trust currently have mobile breast screening units located at Dunnes Stores, Omagh and Alley Theatre, Strabane. We are very grateful to Dunnes Store Manager Chris Mc Mullan, Louise Boyce and Wendy Mc Granaghan from the Alley Theatre Manager and their staff for their help and support.
I would encourage women to attend their breast screening appointment when called to do so, be breast aware and if there are any changes, the breast team are here for you.”