44,000 women and around 300 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in the UK alone. Furthermore there are currently around 172,000 currently living with the disease.

Together with these large numbers there are also large amounts of research being carried out in the cause, detection and treatment of breast cancer. Research by Dr Paul Pharoah in 2008 aims to reduce developing the cancer by creating a risk profile for each patient coupled with an individual screening programme.

Of the 44,000 cases diagnosed each year, research shows that faulty genes could be responsible for up to 10%. Therefore a programme that screens genes to detect potential sufferers could be a helpful tool in early detection.

As it currently stands however, GP practice guidelines state that if any patient consults their GP with a breast cancer concern and has a family history, they will be offered the highest level of support. Furthermore the NHS has announced that it will extend their national breast screening programme which is currently offered to 50-70 year olds to 47-73 year olds.

All research agrees on one fact – early detection can lead to a more simple and effective treatment programme. So to be more breast aware and consult a GP with any unusual changes seems to be the best current advice.

Source: The Guardian
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