Responding following the news that Beyonce’s mother Tina Knowles was diagnosed with breast cancer and had a lumpectomy in August 2024 after missing a mammogram appointment during the pandemic.
Addie Mitchell, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Breast Awareness and Screening at Breast Cancer Now, said:
“We know that breast screening is the most effective way for diagnosing breast cancer early. And the earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment.
“In the UK, women aged 50 or over who are registered with a GP are automatically invited for a mammogram every three years until their 71st birthday. After this time, you can request a mammogram every three years, by contacting your local breast screening unit.
“We encourage everyone to be breast aware, including in between screening appointments, which means getting to know what your breasts look and feel like normally. This will then give you the confidence to notice and report any changes to your GP.
"Checking your breast or chest is simple and there's no special way to check, as long as you check all of the breast or chest area, up to the collarbone and into the armpit.
“Possible signs and symptoms of breast cancer include a lump, changes to the skin, such as dimpling or puckering, changes to the nipple or nipple discharge. Although most breast changes, including lumps, won’t be cancer, it’s important to contact your GP if you notice any breast change that’s new or unusual for you.
“To speak to our expert nurses call our free and confidential helpline on 0808 800 6000.”