Women of any ages are at the risk of developing breast cancer at any stage in there life but the risk increases the older you get. Other factors of developing the disease play a part too such as a significant family history of the disease, although this doesnt mean that you will get breast cancer it does mean you should be more aware of the chances of getting it.

The onset of your period at an early age is thought also to have a link to women developing breast cancer at some stage in there life, your alcohol intake and the fact of being a smoker may also play a part.

Signs to watch out for

The detection of breast cancer at an early age can greatly improve your chances of overcoming the disease and a breast screening programme is in operation for women over 50. For women under this age it is important to be breast aware and there are ways for checking yourself which should be done on a regular basis.

The easiest way to self check is at a time when you are taking a bath or shower, running a soapy hand all over the breast and up under the arm is the quickest and easiest method.

The national health breast awareness state there is a five point code, Get to know what is normal for you

Take notice of your breast, how they look and feel. Make it a point to know off by heart what to check for.

Always report any changes however small to your doctor.

Attend the breast screening programme if you are over 50.

Performing a self check takes but a few minutes but could save your life, as you perform the self check you are searching for any changes to the shape and size of your breast and also feeling for any lumps as these are often the first clear indication of breast cancer developing.

If you do find a lump it doesnt always mean the worst, 9 out of 10 lumps found in the breast are in fact benign, but it is important that should you fins a lump however small to seek medical advice and rule out the onset of cancer.

Treatments and Prognosis

There are generally four different types of treatment for breast cancer. These are, surgery, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and chemotherapy, the choice made for your treatment will involve several different factors such as if you have had your menopause, the type of breast cancer you have, the size and stage and the results of tests done on the cancer cells.

Breast cancer treatment also goes on stages and grades starting from grade 1 where the cancer is slow growing, stage 2 which is intermediate and stage 3 where the cancer is fast growing or spreading. The lower the grade the better chance of complete recovery, with stage 3 the cancer is more likely to return after treatment, but there are no set rules these are only guidelines.