IN SCOTLAND, AROUND 4,800 PEOPLE ARE DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER EVERY YEAR
Nipple changes: Changes in the nipple, including inversion (pulling inward), scaling, or discharge (other than breast milk), should be investigated.
Breast pain: Although rare, breast cancer can cause breast pain or tenderness. However, most breast pain is unrelated to cancer.
Enlarged lymph nodes: If lymph nodes in the armpit or near the collarbone become enlarged or feel hard to the touch, it may indicate breast cancer.
It is essential to remember that many breast changes are not cancer-related, and most breast lumps are benign (non-cancerous).
However, if a patient notices any of these signs or experiences unusual breast changes, it is crucial for them to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.
Supporting patients through their journey A breast cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event. Pharmacies can offer invaluable support by:
1. Providing information: Pharmacists can equip patients with reliable resources, brochures, and guidance on available support services, including counselling, financial assistance, and patient advocacy groups. 2. Ensuring medication adherence: Adherence to prescribed medications is crucial during breast cancer treatment. Pharmacists can educate patients about their medications, potential side effects, and the importance of following their treatment plan. 3. Addressing side effects: Breast cancer treatments can have side effects, ranging from nausea to fatigue. Pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter remedies and provide strategies to manage these symptoms. 4. Advocacy: Pharmacies can help to raise awareness of breast cancer by creating awareness campaigns, displaying informative materials, and hosting events that encourage regular breast health check-ups. 5. Offering a listening ear: Sometimes, patients simply need someone to talk to. Pharmacies can foster an environment of
empathy and compassion, where patients feel comfortable sharing their concerns.
The role of pharmacies: educators and advocates Early detection is key to improving breast cancer outcomes. According to a YouGov survey commissioned by Breast Cancer Now, over a third (39%) of women in the UK do not check their breasts regularly for potential signs of breast cancer. Asked what stops or prevents them from checking their breasts more regularly, over half (53%) forget to check, over a third (39%) are not in the habit of checking. According to Breast Cancer UK, 30% of breast cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes and so, pharmacists have an important role in raising breast cancer awareness
Early detection Here are essential early detection methods that individuals can follow: 1. Breast self-examination (BSE): Regular BSE helps individuals become familiar with their breast tissue and identify any changes promptly. Pharmacists can provide guidance on proper self-examination techniques. 2. Clinical breast examination: Regular clinical breast examinations by healthcare professionals can detect abnormalities that may not be noticeable during self-examination. 3. Mammography: Mammograms are X-ray examinations of the breast tissue. The Breast Screening Programme in Scotland provides free breast screening to women aged 50-70 every three years. 4. Genetic testing: Women who have a BRCA2 gene variant have a higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. Individuals with a family history of breast cancer or certain genetic mutations may benefit from genetic testing.
Conclusion By raising awareness of breast cancer, providing education, support, and advocacy, pharmacies can contribute significantly to early detection and improved outcomes.
For more information:
https://breastcancernow.org/ https://www.breastcanceruk.org.uk/ https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/ https://www.macmillan.org.uk/
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