Be Clear On Cancer

By Allison Hay

Maureen Linaker, a breast cancer survivor, is keen to get the message out there

Breast cancer survivors and GPs bare all in new film to raise awareness of the disease…

Well known GPs, Dr Dawn Harper, Dr Rosemary Leonard, Dr Zoe Williams, Dr Ellie Cannon and Dr Sara Kayat, have teamed up with breast cancer survivors aged over 70 years old to star in a new film to highlight that older women are more at risk of the disease, as one in three women diagnosed with the disease is aged 70 or over.

Latest figures also show that women over 70 are more than five times as likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than women under 50. The new film reinforces the important message, “don’t assume you’re past it” and encourages older women to visit their doctor straight away if they notice any unusual or persistent changes to their breasts, as shown in the film.

It is vital for all women, especially those over 70, to remain breast aware, which means getting to know what their breasts look and feel like normally, so any changes are easier to spot – which is why all women over 70, and friends and family of women over 70, are urged to watch the film and share with others.

Watch the video here:

Rosemary Leonard, GP and media medic, said,

I was proud to take part in this film as it’s such an important message we need to get out there. At all ages, women must get to know their own breasts. Learning how they look and feel at different times allows women to understand what is normal for them and will help them to be spot any unusual changes. They must remember that a lump isn’t the only sign of breast cancer.

“It is so important that if someone notices changes to their breasts, they go and see their GP. We want to see them, and they certainly won’t be wasting our time. I’ve seen many women survive breast cancer because they went to see their doctor quickly after spotting a symptom. Please don’t delay if you have any concerns – it could save your life.”

Maureen Linaker, 80, a breast cancer survivor who features in the film, comments,

I was 77 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer, after I found a lump on my right breast. I had surgery to remove the tumour and a breast reconstruction, followed by radiotherapy. The cancer has now gone, and I am fit and well. Women my age tend not to look at their breasts, but I would urge them to be breast aware and know how their breasts look and feel and to make sure they go and see their doctor if they notice any unusual symptoms. I did, and it saved my life and I am forever grateful for the excellent care and treatment I received.”