Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women in the UK, with one woman being diagnosed every 10 minutes. Friday 22^nd October marks Breast Cancer Now’s Wear It Pink day, a fundraising day to make life-saving breast cancer research and life-changing care happen. You can find out more about the event and make a donation on the Breast Cancer Now website.

Being the most common cancer in women, we're encouraging women in the local community to regularly check their breasts for any signs or symptoms of breast cancer. These include: 

• A lump or swelling in the breast, upper chest or armpit
• A change to the skin, such as puckering or dimpling
• A change in the colour of the breast – the breast may look red or inflamed
• A nipple change, for example it has become pulled in (inverted)
• Rash or crusting around the nipple
• Unusual liquid (discharge) from either nipple
• Changes in size or shape of the breast

If you notice any changes at all, it’s important to get checked by your GP. Most breast changes, including breast lumps, aren’t cancer, but the sooner breast cancer is found, the more successful treatment is likely to be.

If you are registered with a GP in Southport or Formby, then you have access to our 7 Day GP service which offers evening and weekend appointments, if these are more convenient for you. Find out more about the service, including how to book an appointment, on our 7 Day GP service webpage.