The majority of breast cancer cases are diagnosed through GP referrals so its really important to be breast aware. Knowing what your breasts look and feel like means you will be able to tell what's normal for you and recognise any changes in your breasts as soon as they appear.

There is no need to follow a complicated routine, just look at and feel your breasts regularly at the same time of the month in the same environment- having a bath, shower, when dressing, standing, or lying down. If you find anything unusual or you are worried you should consult your GP. Some symptoms can include change in size or shape of the breast, change in the appearance of the skin or nipple (including blood-stained discharge), pain and lumps in the breast or armpit. But remember, anything that is unusual for you needs to be checked out. 

As we get older our risk for breast cancer increases, 80% of breast cancer cases in the UK are in woman aged 50 and older. So if you're over 50 make sure you know about the NHS Breast Screening Programme, but breast cancer is rare if you're under 40 years of age.

 

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Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women under the age of 35. Risk factors include smoking and having sex at an early age. Cervical cancer develops from cells lining the cervix, which is the canal that connects the uterus to the vagina. During childbirth, the baby passes through this canal.

Cervical cancer does not develop suddenly. There is usually a period when some of the cells lining the cervix develop abnormal changes that can give rise to cervical cancer later on. If you're aged between 25 and 64 the NHS Cervical Screening programme will call you for a smear every 3-5years. The idea is to detect any abnormal changes in cells before cancer develops. If the test detects anything that is abnormal the doctor will arrange for further tests and treatment if necessary. There are usually no early symptoms of cervical cancer but advanced symptoms include bleeding between periods and after sex, and unusual discharge. However, the earlier abnormalities are picked up the better your chances, so when you get called for a smear put on a smile and make your appointment!