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Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK. Most women diagnosed with breast cancer are over the age of 50, but younger women can also get breast cancer.

About 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. There's a good chance of recovery if it's detected at an early stage.

For this reason, it's vital that women check their breasts regularly for any changes and always have any changes examined by a GP.

In some cases, men can also be diagnosed with breast cancer. Find out more about breast cancer in men here.

What happens if a breast cancer is diagnosed?

If your biopsy shows a breast cancer, we will discuss your case at our weekly meeting of breast cancer specialists. All your investigations will be reviewed and the best treatment options discussed. The team will agree a recommendation.

You will be seen in clinic one to two weeks after your biopsy to discuss. It can be helpful to come with a family member or friend for added support at this consultation. We realise this is a daunting time and there will be a team of specialists on hand to support you. The breast care nurse team will be available and will also be in the consultation with you.

In these pages you will find more information about breast cancer and the services and support that is available. 

Contact us

The breast cancer clinical nurse specialist team are available to contact Monday to Friday between 8am and 4pm (excluding bank holidays). Call us on 023 8120 3753.

A voicemail service is in operation and calls will be returned within 24 to 48hours during the week unless the voicemail message states otherwise.

For patients who have had surgery within the previous 2 weeks and are concerned about wound issues, please contact the day surgery unit at Princess Anne Hospital on 023 8120 6659.

For oncology emergencies please contact the 24 hour acute oncology service on 023 8120 1345.

Useful links

https://www.maggies.org/

https://www.macmillan.org.uk/

https://breastcancernow.org/

https://www.knowyourlemons.org/

https://www.pinkribbonfoundation.org.uk/

https://coppafeel.org/

https://www.breastcanceruk.org.uk/

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/donate-to-breast-cancer