Breast cancer: older ladies dying from ignorance

Experts say older girls may possibly be much less mindful of the hazards and a lot more likely to leave it longer before seeing a physician.

Prof Dame Sally Davies, England’s chief healthcare officer, explained: “Survival rates from this ailment reduce with age.

“However, awareness of signs and symptoms and threat is minimal amongst this age group, which means these women are far more probably to be diagnosed at a late stage. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the greater the chance of survival.”

More than 90 per cent of all ladies diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer survive for at least five many years, but this drops to 15 per cent for these whose cancer is diagnosed in the later phases. PHE is launching a Be Clear on Cancer campaign to inform older girls: “Don’t assume you’re past it.”

Ladies are currently being urged to check out their medical professional if they discover any modifications in their breasts. Professionals think a lack of awareness of symptoms that are not a lump, such as changes in the shape or dimension of the breast, could be one of the factors older ladies do not seek assist.

Sean Duffy, national clinical director at NHS England, said: “When we search at other countries this kind of as Sweden it is clear that we are losing far too several older ladies to breast cancer.

“In 2009, it was estimated that about 2,000 deaths from the illness could be prevented each year in England if survival rates matched the best in Europe.

“Whilst we have created great progress in the final decade, we are nevertheless lagging behind our global counterparts.”

In Scotland, girls are screened routinely up to the age of 71. Females aged 71 and in excess of can only be screened if they refer themselves to their regional screening centre. In Northern Ireland and Wales, only females aged 50 to 70 are invited for screening.

Caroline Abrahams, the charity director of Age Uk, mentioned: “Older ladies are less conscious of cancer signs and symptoms, and analysis displays that medical professionals are less most likely to supply older individuals the most effective remedies, regardless of the fact they can advantage.

“Older ladies want to be mindful that developing breast cancer in later on lifestyle is a genuine likelihood and that with the right assistance, treatments can be productive no matter what your age.”

Breast cancer: older ladies dying from ignorance