15/10/2026
🩷 Breast Cancer Awareness Month – October 2026 🩷
Know Your Normal. Check Your Breasts.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness of breast cancer, encourage people to become familiar with their breasts, and remind everyone of the importance of attending breast screening appointments when invited.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the UK, but it can also affect men. The earlier it is detected, the more successful treatment is likely to be.
Know what's normal for you
There is no right or wrong way to check your breasts. The most important thing is to become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel so that you can notice any changes.
You should contact the practice if you notice:
A new lump or thickening in the breast or armpit.
A change in the size or shape of one or both breasts.
Changes to the skin of the breast, such as dimpling or puckering.
Redness or a rash on or around the ni**le.
A ni**le that becomes pulled in (inverted) if it wasn't before.
Discharge from the ni**le, particularly if it is blood-stained.
Persistent pain in one area of the breast that is unusual for you.
Most breast changes are not caused by cancer, but they should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Breast screening saves lives
The NHS Breast Screening Programme invites women registered with a GP for routine mammograms from around the age of 50, with invitations continuing until their early 70s. Screening aims to detect breast cancer before symptoms develop, when treatment is often more effective.
If you receive an invitation for breast screening, please attend your appointment. Even if you feel well and have no symptoms, screening can detect changes that cannot be seen or felt.
Can I reduce my risk?
Although not all breast cancers can be prevented, you can help reduce your risk by:
Maintaining a healthy weight.
Being physically active.
Limiting alcohol intake.
Not smoking.
Attending routine screening when invited.
Reporting any breast changes promptly.
We're here to help
If you've noticed a change in your breasts or have concerns about your breast health, please contact the practice to arrange an appointment.
Most breast changes turn out to be harmless, but it's always important to have them checked. If necessary, we can arrange further assessment through a specialist breast clinic.
Knowing your normal and seeking advice early could make all the difference.
