Breast cancer

Question 1

Who does breast cancer affect (5)

Answer 1

1. On average 1 woman in 7
2. Breast cancer can also affect men, but rarely – on average 350 men a year.
3. The causes of breast cancer are not yet completely understood.
4. The risk of developing breast cancer is very small in young women and increases as women get older.
5. Each year around a quarter of all new breast cancer cases in the UK are diagnosed in people aged 75 and over.

Question 2

What are the symptoms of breast cancer (3)

Answer 2

1. Pain in the breast is rarely a symptom of breast cancer.
2. Some types of benign (non-cancerous) breast lumps can be painful.
3. If anyone comes to you with these sort of symptoms, you should refer them to the pharmacist straight away.

Question 3

What are risk factors for breast cancer (9)

Answer 3

1. age over 50
2. family history of breast cancer
3. Previous history of breast cancer and/or benign lumps
4. HRT
5. increased oestrogen
6. Oral contraception
7. Never breastfed
8. Inactivity/overweight/obese after menopause
9. moderate amounts of alcohol