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Isle of Man Department of Health urges women to stay breast aware all year-round
– Reported, January 24, 2012
The Isle of Man operates a call and recall breast screening service, operated from the Central Community Health Centre on Westmoreland Road. The screening programme sees all woman aged between 50 and 70 called once every two years for a mammogram, which uses state of the art digital x-ray imaging, ensuring a consistent and high quality image.
Minister for Health, David Anderson MHK, said:
The Island continues to advance in both the screening of breast cancer and in its treatment. We will soon have a new, eminent and highly experienced breast surgeon coming to our shores to work at Nobles Hospital; but the message here is about doing everything we can to try and help women avoid breast surgery. Early detection is key and this feeds into the Departments new health strategy which will see an increasing focus on screening, early detection and the prevention of disease.
Breast screening (mammography) is an x-ray examination of the breasts, which can show breast cancers at an early stage, when they are too small for women to see or feel or for doctors to detect during a physical examination. A mammogram takes a few minutes and involves only a tiny dose of radiation, with a screening appointment taking about half an hour.
Hilary Miller, Superintendent Radiographer for the Isle of Man Breast Screening Programme said:
Some women may be put off by the idea of breast screening, but its a very safe procedure that for some could mean the difference between life and death. Whilst we used to operate a self-referral screening programme, since February 2008 women between 50 and 70 are now automatically called once every two years. Women over 70 are encouraged to self refer for screening simply by telephoning the appointments office on 685339. This approach has seen a spike in breast cancer cases on the Island, which was expected and goes to show how successful and important screening is in the early detection of breast cancer.
One in eight women will develop breast cancer at some time in their life. Breast cancer is more common in women over 50, which is why regular screening begins at this age. Breast cancer can strike women at any age, and knowing the signs and symptoms is important. It is estimated that breast screening across the UK saves 1,400 lives nationally each year. Symptoms to look out for can include: lumps in breast or armpit, pain, discharge from the nipple or anything else unusual.
Jan Brooks, President of Breakthrough Breast Cancer Isle of Man and Trustee of Breakthrough Breast Cancer UK said
As with any cancer, the earlier its detected, the greater the likelihood of successful treatment. The signs of breast cancer can become apparent at any time, in those under 50 who arent routinely screened or in the two years between the scans of those who are. That why its vitally important that women know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and self-check regularly. The message from Breakthrough Breast Cancer is to touch, look and check regularly so that women can be aware of any changes.
In terms of screening on-Island, were incredibly fortunate to have a digital imaging system; and women are called every two years as opposed to every three years as in the UK. Breakthrough Breast Cancer is campaigning for the introduction of digital x-ray systems in all UK hospitals, so the Isle of Man is ahead of the game in offering this gold standard of service.
Five point plan for breast care:
1. Know what is normal for you
2. Look at and feel your breasts
3. Know what changes to look for
4. Tell your doctor about any changes immediately
5. Attend for breast screening if aged 50 or over.
Women aged over 70 can self-refer for breast screening. Women with any questions or concerns can see their GP or can call 642570.
On-Island events during October to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month included a fashion show ‘Fashion for Life’ held at the Villa Marina which was organised by Isle of Man Breast Care and compered by Geoff Corkish MHK and Dot Tilbury. Friday 28th October marked ‘Wear it Pink’ Day, with many people across the Island wearing pink clothing to raise awareness and money for breast cancer charities. Staff at the Department of Health’s headquarters took-part, paying to ‘dress down’ in pink for the day. The Islands famous Tower of Refuge was illuminated pink to mark the occasion.
More Information at:http://www.gov.im/lib/news/health/departmentofheal43.xml