Over-70s Urged to Seek Breast Screening After Life-Saving Discovery
A 71-year-old woman credits a routine mammogram with saving her life, emphasizing the critical importance of continued breast cancer screening for women over 70. Judith Brown, from Backwell near Bristol, discovered a tumour in April 2024 after not having been screened for several years, as she believed routine checks ceased at age 70.
Staff at Southmead Hospital encouraged Ms. Brown to share her experience, urging women in her age group to proactively request screenings. “My message is don’t wait. Ask,” she implored. “Just because you can’t feel somthing and you haven’t had a mammogram or a test for any other cancer. Please, please go and ask.”
Ms. Brown underwent a lumpectomy, a procedure to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue. She expressed profound gratitude for the extraordinary care she received,stating,”The care and attention that I had has been phenomenal,Southmead are just amazing.” She also highlighted the availability of extensive support services, including macmillan counselling, which she found beneficial. “Thankfully I am fully fit again,” she confirmed.
Breast cancer remains the most prevalent cancer in the UK, with nearly 57,000 diagnoses annually, predominantly affecting women, though approximately 390 men are also diagnosed each year. One in seven women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, with the risk increasing significantly after the age of 50.
Phoebe McCulloh, a clinical nurse specialist in breast screening at Southmead Hospital, elaborated on the signs to watch for beyond palpable lumps.”It’s not just about finding lumps.You want to look out for any changes to the skin,” she advised.These changes can include puckering, dimpling, or an orange peel-like texture.Ms. McCulloh also pointed to alterations in the nipple or areola, such as inversion, discharge, or redness, as potential indicators requiring medical attention.
This vital message is being amplified as part of BBC Radio Bristol’s “Wake Up Call” series, where presenter Joe Sims shares personal stories of breast cancer survivors to encourage listeners to prioritize their health and seek timely medical advice for any health concerns.
