October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this may seem like an odd thing to highlight from a bowel cancer campaigner, but it’s important to recognise the fight against all types of cancer. It’s also vital to recognise and celebrate undoubted success.
Breast cancer is a real success story in the UK with survival rates increasing from 82% in the 70’s up to 96% in 2010-11. Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in the UK but joint third biggest cancer killer, this is thanks to so many advances in treatment and also increased awareness of the disease so women (and men) know what signs to look for.
It’s also thanks to an incredible and integrated support system including the amazing Breast Cancer Support Nurses who are available throughout the country and do fantastic work.
I can remember a time when ‘cancer’ was talked about in hushed tones, if it was discussed at all. That’s changed dramatically in relatively short time thanks largely to the breast cancer charities running very public campaigns that not only raised awareness of the disease but helped to reduce the social stigma of having cancer.
All of us with cancer are benefitting from the early work from the breast cancer charities. The emerging campaigns and support for other cancer types, such as bowel cancer, can learn so much from breast cancer.
So in Breast Cancer Awareness Month, let’s celebrate success and say thank you to everyone who’s made such a positive difference to this disease!