Breast Cancer

  Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women in Northern Ireland after non- melanoma skin cancer. Breast cancer can occur at any age. However, the risk of developing it increases with age. Most breast cancers occur in women over 50. If it is found early, there is a better chance that treatment will be successful.   

It’s important to understand the risk factors for male breast cancer, particularly because men are not routinely screened for the disease and don’t think about the possibility that they’ll get it. 

  All women aged 50-70 are invited to attend for a mammogram at their local breast screening unit every three years. Women over 70 are not routinely invited for breast screening although they are encouraged to call their local screening unit to request breast screening every three years. Breast screening uses a low dose X-ray test called a mammogram to check the breast for signs of cancer.

  Cervical cancer is when abnormal cells in the lining of the cervix grow in an uncontrolled way. The cervix is part of the female reproductive system and is in the lower part of the womb. It is the opening to the vagina from the womb. The main symptom is unusual bleeding from the vagina. Finding changes in the cells through screening can help to prevent cancer developing.

The prostate is a gland found at the base of the bladder wrapped around the tube (called the urethra) which carries urine out of the penis. It is about the size of a golf ball and its job is produce fluid which carries sperm. 

The symptoms for prostate cancer can be similar to those found in men but for most men there are no symptoms. Therefore, it is important that you discuss any symptoms you have with your doctor.

Ovarian cancer is when abnormal cells in the ovary begin to grow and divide in an uncontrolled way, and eventually form a growth (tumour).

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be very vague, particularly when the disease is in its early stages.

  It’s best to do a Testicular Self Examination during or right after a hot shower or bath. The scrotum (skin that covers the testicles) is most relaxed then, which makes it easier to examine the testicles.