By Pamela McGowan Health reporter

Last updated at 12:25, Tuesday, 27 October 2009

Nine thousand Cumbrian women are putting themselves at risk of breast cancer by ignoring screening invites.

Latest figures show that every year more than 20 per cent of women in the county invited for routine breast screening appointments do not attend.

Health experts fear they are putting their health at risk and are urging women not to ignore these invitations.

As we approach the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, statistics released by NHS Cumbria show the true extent of the problem.

In 2007/08, a total of 42,700 Cumbrian women – aged from 50 to 70-years-old – were invited for breast screening. Of those 78.9 per cent attended, meaning that around 9,000 women in the county did not.

In 2007 a total of 112 women died from breast cancer in Cumbria. Nationally there were over 10,000 deaths.

Breast cancer is most common in women aged over 50, which is why this age group are invited for screening.

However it can happen at any age, which is why regular self-examination is also essential to detect any changes.

If detected early enough the chance of survival increases dramatically. Now over 80 per cent of women diagnosed with breast cancer are still alive five years later, compared to just 52 per cent in the 1970s. Although the cause of breast cancer is unknown, factors such as age and a family history can increase risk.

Dr Nigel Calvert, NHS Cumbria’s associate director of public health, urged women not to ignore screening invites. “Breast cancer continues to be one of the biggest cancer killers in women despite the increase in survival rates,” he said.

“Even if you do survive there are often major psychological issues which some women may have to overcome. This is why it is so vital that we catch it as early as possible.

“I ask that any woman in Cumbria who gets a letter asking them to attend a screening appointment, does so. You’ll only be invited every three years and those few minutes could save your life. In the meantime it’s also important that women regularly check their breasts every month for any changes or unusual lumps. The best time is usually after your monthly period.”

Signs to look out for are:

• A lump or thickened area of tissue in either breast;

• Discharge from either nipple, especially if it contains blood;

• A lump or swelling in either armpit;

• Either breast changing size or shape;

• A rash on or around the nipple;

• Pain in your breasts or nipples not related to your period;

• A change in the appearance of your nipples or if they become sunken.

If anyone, either men or women, experience any of these changes they should go and see their GP.

Not all changes will mean breast cancer as 90 per cent of breast lumps are non-cancerous, such as cysts. However, it is best to be sure.

First published at 11:34, Tuesday, 27 October 2009
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk