April, 20255 MIN READ
Let’s Talk Chest checking with CoppaFeel!
At Boux Avenue, we want to look after our community from top to bottom. That’s why we are partnered with CoppaFeel!; the UK’s first and only youth focused breast cancer awareness charity, with the aim to end the late diagnosis of breast cancer.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is cancer that forms in breast tissue and can affect anyone because people of all ages, races and genders have breast tissue.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK - yet when diagnosed early, breast cancer treatments are more effective and survival rates are higher. Early detection can save lives.
That is why CoppaFeel! wants to educate you on the signs of breast cancer, empower and encourage you to know your body and regularly check your boobs, pecs, chests. Whatever you call them - CoppaFeel! wants you to check them.
Stats and facts about Breast Cancer
In the UK… - 1 in 7 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. - Nearly 400 men are diagnosed every year. - Around 2,500 people under the age of 40 are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. - In females aged 25-49 in the UK, breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer death, accounting for almost a third (31%) of all cancer deaths in this group in 2016-2018. - 7 people under the age of 40 on average are diagnosed with breast cancer every day in the UK.
Breast Cancer Signs
Now you know some more about breast cancer, it’s time to get chest aware.
There is no right or wrong way to check your chest but CoppaFeel! recommends you:
Check Monthly: - This will help you get to know what’s normal for you. - You can use any method you’re comfortable with and check wherever you feel most comfortable
Look & Feel: - Remember to check all parts of your chest, including your armpits, up to your collarbones and your nipples.
If in doubt, get it checked out: - If you notice anything unusual for you, get it checked out by your GP.
Below are some signs of breast cancer that you should be aware of when you are looking at and feeling your chest. Not all chest changes mean breast cancer but when in doubt, always get checked out by your GP. - Skin changes such as puckering or skin dimpling. ... - Unusual lump or swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone. ... - Unusual lumps and thickening. ... - Liquid coming from your nipple. ... - Nipple is pulled inwards or changes in direction - A sudden, unusual change in size or shape - Constant, unusual pain in your breast or pec or armpit
Need some more help?
If you’d like more help with understanding how to check or how to get started on your checking journey then the CoppaFeel! Self-Checkout is the tool for you! The Self-Checkout is CoppaFeel!’s fab guide to checking; taking you through the steps of getting started, and providing practical tools to have the confidence to do this every month. Visiting The Self-Checkout is the perfect way to start on your chest checking journey.
Now you’ve learnt a little more about breast cancer and the importance of being chest aware, it’s time to act! Sign up to CoppaFeel!’s text reminders by texting CHEST to 82228, share our mission and message with everyone you know, follow us on socials @coppafeel.org or visit coppafeel.org for more information.
References: Cancer Research UK website, Accessed June 2024