October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to highlighting the importance of breast health awareness, early detection, and timely support for those affected by it. In this article, Ms Katerina Micha, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon at New Victoria Hospital, shares her expert advice on breast awareness, symptoms to look out for, and when to see a specialist. Her guidance also reflects the services available at New Victoria Hospital, where patients can attend One Stop Breast Clinics for fast, specialist care.

As one of the most common cancers in the UK, breast cancer affects thousands of people every year. While it can be life-changing, it is reassuring to know that when detected early, survival rates improve significantly, and a wider range of treatment options is available.

What Is Breast Awareness?

Breast health awareness means being familiar with how your breasts usually look and feel, so that you are more likely to notice changes early. It is not about performing daily and obsessive self-checks, but about developing confidence in recognising what is normal for you.

Signs and changes to look out for include:

• Lumps or thickened areas in the breast or underarm
• Noticeable changes in breast size, shape, or symmetry
• Skin changes such as dimpling, puckering, redness, or warmth
• Nipple changes, including inversion, discharge, persistent redness, or scaling
• Persistent pain or tenderness

Most breast changes are not caused by cancer, but timely assessment ensures that any serious conditions are detected and treated at the earliest stage possible.

How to Practice Breast Awareness

Breast awareness is about incorporating simple habits into your routine that support early detection and overall breast health. Even small lifestyle changes can help reduce cancer risk.

1. Self-Exams

• Become familiar with breast appearance and feel.
• Perform monthly self-checks, gently and consistently, ideally a few days after your period ends, when breasts are less tender, noting any differences from your baseline.
• Examine the entire breast and armpit area.

2. Know Your Risk Factors

• Age, family history, genetics, and lifestyle all affect risk.
• Discuss personal risk with a GP or a Breast Consultant, who can advise on preventive measures or enhanced screening.

3. Screening

• Women aged 50–71 are usually invited every three years for a screening appointment at the NHS. Ensure that your GP has your up-to-date address details, and don’t ignore the invitation letters.
• Higher-risk individuals may require more frequent screenings.

4. For your peace of mind, you can book a private Breast Clinic appointment at any time.
5. Healthy Lifestyle Choices:

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet.
• Avoid smoking.

What to Do if You Notice a Change or Feel Worried

Noticing a change in your breasts can feel worrying, but taking the right steps can provide reassurance and, where necessary, lead to early treatment. Most changes are not cancer, but waiting may delay diagnosis or increase your anxiety, so please contact your GP or book a consultation at our Breast Clinic.

Our dedicated One Stop Breast Clinics are led by experienced Oncoplastic Breast Surgeons. Here, patients can be seen quickly for consultation and diagnostic imaging in one convenient visit. If needed, also a biopsy will be arranged, often on the same day.

“In my clinics, patients often ask whether minor changes are normal. Your concerns are valid and understandable, and it is always best to discuss any change with a healthcare professional. Most breast changes are not cancer, but seeing a specialist provides reassurance and, if needed, early diagnosis. Being proactive about breast health can make a real difference – it significantly increases treatment options and improves outcomes.”
Ms Katerina Micha, MBBS, FRCS(Eng), MSc, PhD, FEBS, Breast Surgery Consultant at New Victoria Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does a lump always mean cancer?

A: Most lumps are not cancerous, but any new or unusual lump should be evaluated promptly. Early assessment increases the chances of effective treatment.

Q: How often should screenings occur?

A: The NHS generally offers mammograms every three years to women aged 50–71. Those with higher risk factors may be advised to have more frequent screenings. If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or simply want peace of mind, you might consider booking an appointment at our One Stop Breast Clinic. Your GP can also provide personalised guidance about how to be proactive towards your breast health.

Q: How often should I check my breasts?

A: Monthly self-exams are recommended. For those who menstruate, it is ideal to check a few days after the period ends, when the breasts are less tender or swollen.

Q: What should I look for during breast self-check?

A: During your breast self-check, look out for new lumps, changes in size or shape, skin dimpling, and nipple changes. Any of these should prompt consultation with a healthcare professional. It is advisable to keep a record of changes, noting when they appeared and whether they progressed, so you feel more confident discussing your concerns and help your Consultant understand your symptoms more clearly.

Q: Can lifestyle changes reduce breast cancer risk?

A: Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, avoiding smoking, and eating a nutrient-rich diet can all help reduce risk.

Key Takeaways

• Become familiar with the appearance and feel of your breasts during monthly self-checks.
• Seek prompt medical advice for any new or unusual changes.
• Discuss any concerns with your GP or a Breast Consultant.
• Attend all recommended screenings.
• Adopt healthy lifestyle habits to reduce risk.
• Use reliable support resources for guidance.

At New Victoria Hospital, patients can access private Breast Clinics run by expert Oncoplastic Breast Surgeons. These clinics provide rapid access to consultation, diagnostic imaging including mammography and/or ultrasound scan, and onward management if required.

If you are concerned about your breast health, or would like to book a private appointment with Ms Katerina Micha or one of our Breast Consultants, please contact us on 020 8949 9020 or complete our online enquiry form.