Why breast checking belongs in the friendship chat

What we’re not talking about

New research from our partner tombola* asked 2,000 women across the UK what they talk to their friends about. Two in three have never asked their friend whether she’s checked. That’s despite 58% knowing someone who’s been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Only 9% talk about checking at all. Work comes up for 41%. Body image for 40%. Relationships for 34%. Checking for breast cancer comes last.

We already look out for each other

More than half of women (53%) tell a friend to get home safe at least once a month. 46% ask “no, but are you actually okay?”. Just 14% ask if she’s checked.

That’s why this Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re getting you to Walk, Talk and Check with tombola.

We’re asking you to add one question to the ones you already ask. On a walk, in the queue for a coffee, halfway through a catch-up: when did you last check?

It’ll feel odd the first time. But the more we talk about it, the more normal it becomes.

Not sure where to start? Our comprehensive guide tells you about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and how to check.

Katherine Ryan and Alexandra Burke on the conversation we’re not having

Katherine Ryan and Alexandra Burke talk it through on Katherine’s podcast, What’s My Age Again? Alexandra talks about finding a lump and losing her aunt to breast cancer. Together they explore why women talk to their friends about so much, but rarely breast cancer.

Tombola

Tombola came to us in 2025 after finding out over 50% of their community  has been touched by breast cancer. They opened with £250,000. Together we’ve now passed £700,000.

That money funds life-saving research and life-changing support for everyone affected by breast cancer.

Thank you to tombola and to everyone in their community who’s donated, fundraised and talk about this. Now let’s get more people checking.

*Research: Opinium poll of 2,000 UK women aged 18+, weighted to be nationally representative, 9 to 11 September 2026. Commissioned by tombola.