Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: Recognising the Signs and Symptoms

This October, we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about breast cancer, supporting those affected, and encouraging early screening.

As the most common cancer in the UK, breast cancer accounts for 15% of all new cancer cases, and a staggering 30% of new cases in women. With over two million women globally diagnosed each year, it’s more important than ever to educate ourselves on the symptoms and ensure timely medical attention.

While breast cancer is primarily a disease affecting women, it can also affect men, with 400 male diagnoses annually in the UK. Early detection is crucial, and knowing the signs can be life-saving. Below, we cover key symptoms to look out for, how to check your breasts, and what to do if you’re concerned about changes.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Keep an eye out for the following symptoms:

A lump or thickened area in the breast.
A nipple that flattens or turns inward.
Changes in skin colour, texture, or appearance, such as dimpling or swelling.
Pain in the breast or nipple.
Unusual nipple discharge (excluding breast milk).

These changes could be early indicators of breast cancer or other conditions, so getting checked is vital.

What does a breast cancer lump feel like?

According to VeryWellHealth the signs of a cancerous lump differ from those of a benign lump in the breast. Some possible signs a lump could be cancerous include:

Rock-like firmness
Irregular size or shape
Fixed to one area as if attached to skin or other tissues within the breast
Being immovable
appears in the upper outer portion of your breast
grows over time

How to check your breasts

The NHS advises checking your breasts monthly. Here’s how to perform a self-exam:

Look in a mirror with arms at your sides, then raised, to spot any visual changes.
Feel around each breast in a circular motion, working up to the collarbone and under the armpits, using varying pressure.
Check around and over each nipple.

Regular self-exams are key to noticing any unusual changes early on.

When should I see a GP?

If you notice any lumps, changes in your breast or nipple, or persistent pain, it’s important to consult your GP. While many breast lumps are harmless, they still require medical evaluation.

What happens at a breast screening?

If your GP recommends breast screening, here’s what you can expect during the appointment:

The procedure will be done by female mammographers.
Your breast will be gently compressed between two plates for a few seconds while X-rays are taken.

The whole process is quick, typically taking about 30 minutes. Your results will be sent by post.

Breast Cancer NHS failures – When to make a claim

If you believe there has been a delay in diagnosing or treating breast cancer, leading to complications, you may be entitled to compensation. Timely diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, and delays can result in more invasive procedures.

At Oakwood Scotland Solicitors, we have specialists who can guide you through the process of making a claim if you believe you’ve been affected by negligence.

Who can bring a claim?

Claims can be brought by the person affected or, in cases where the victim has sadly passed away, their estate or dependents.

What can you claim for?

You may be able to claim for:

General damages: Compensation for pain, suffering, and psychological impact.
Special damages: Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses, including medical costs and loss of earnings.

How much compensation will I get?

Each case is unique, but examples include £121,000 for a 15-month delay leading to a mastectomy, and £160,000 for an 18-month delay where chemotherapy was required. Our team can provide specific advice on the value of your claim.

How is my case funded?

Most cases are handled on a ‘no-win, no-fee’ basis, meaning you won’t pay upfront or if the claim is unsuccessful. A small percentage of damages will cover legal fees if you win.

Why choose Oakwood Scotland Solcitors?

Our dedicated team has extensive experience in handling breast cancer negligence claims. We aim to make the process clear and straightforward, ensuring you receive the best possible outcome.

If you have any concerns about your breast cancer diagnosis or treatment, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our specialist team. We are here to support you every step of the way.