ELDERLY women in Middlewich are being encouraged to check themselves for breast cancer. 

NHS South Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), which covers Middlewich, is asking women over the age of 70 to be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer as one in three women who develop the type of cancer are over 70.

Dr Sinead Clarke, cancer lead for NHS South Cheshire CCG and GP advisor for Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “Breast cancer is the most common cancer in England and we encourage all women to be breast aware and know the symptoms. With one in three women diagnosed nationally being 70 or over, we want to ensure that older women are aware of the symptoms.

“If you notice any changes in your breasts, it is important that you contact your doctor straight away. You’re not wasting anyone’s time and it’s much better to be sure, if only to put your mind at rest. If breast cancer is detected early, it is more treatable. Finding it early could save your life.”

The symptoms for breast cancer include a lump or thickening in your breast or armpit, change to the skin of your breast, changes in the shape or size of your breast, nipple changes or discharge, pain in your breast or any other unusual or persistent changes.

If you are aged 70 or over and it’s been three years or more since your last breast screening you can get in touch with the local screening team and make an appointment by calling 01270 612396.